MANILA, Philippines — Malacanang has axed the top official of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in the Bicol region for allegedly extorting from transport operators. Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea wrote LTFRB Bicol director Vladimir Kahulugan on Nov. 28 ordering him to vacate his office immediately after a three-month investigation of his alleged corruption. His personnel eluded an entrapment operation by Albay’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and remained at large. Isles also recommended criminal charges against Kahulugan, who was also allegedly involved in protecting unregistered public utility vehicles. Isles also recommended the deactivation of the Bicol Interagency Road Safety Operation, which Kahulugan organized under the region’s Highway Patrol Group allegedly for his extortion racket.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer December 04, 2019 21:00 UTC