Fiscal in viral video ordered to answer MMDA complaint

MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra on Wednesday said that the prosecutor who was caught in video trying to avoid being fine for illegal parking was ordered to answer the raps filed against her.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has filed an administrative complaint against Christine Villamora Estapa, a DOJ prosecutor.

“We asked prosecutor Estepa to comment on the MMDA complaint, similar to a show-cause order. She will submit shortly,” the Justice chief said.

READ: MMDA files raps vs ‘arrogant’ fiscal

Following Estepa’s submission of reply, the DOJ will determine whether the complaint filed by the MMDA should be dismissed or whether Estepa should be formally charged, added Guevarra.

Estepa was caught in a 14-minute video arguing with MMDA traffic enforcers over her illegal parking violation during one of the agency’s operations in Quezon City.

The DOJ prosecutor was seen in the video asking Bong Nebrija, MMDA supervising operations officer, and other traffic enforcers to give her “five minutes” before her vehicle was towed.

The video, posted on Gadget Addict’s Facebook page, has since made rounds in social media.

Estepa and her husband have publicly apologized for their behavior.

Nebrijia also filed a complaint against Estepa before the Land Transportation Office, asking for the suspension or revocation of the fiscal’s driver’s license.

According to Nebrijia, the prosecutor raised her voice and allegedly hit one of the traffic enforcers when she was asked to hand in her driver’s license and pay P200 fine for illegal parking. — Kristine Joy Patag