Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado M. Estrella III has ordered the immediate dismissal of a Contract of Service worker who fled from traffic enforcers after being flagged down for a traffic violation.
Secretary Estrella also directed Assistant Secretary Ubaldo R. Sadiarin Jr., the immediate supervisor of Russel Smith, to ensure that Smith surrenders to traffic authorities and takes full responsibility for his violation.
“Fire him!” Estrella firmly instructed Asst. Secretary Sadiarin following reports that Smith had invoked his name while being apprehended.
“My parents and grandparents taught me to live a simple life. I do not keep police escorts, nor do I condone the misuse of my name,” the DAR chief stated in response to allegations that Smith resorted to name-dropping during the incident.
Smith was flagged down by Quezon City traffic enforcers on Thursday for illegally parking his vehicle along Timog Avenue. Video footage of the incident shows him refusing to present his driver’s license and speeding away to evade apprehension.
Secretary Estrella categorically denied any direct association with Smith and ordered an immediate and thorough investigation. He also emphasized that, regardless of the findings, Smith’s contract of service with the department will not be renewed, and he will be permanently barred from any future employment with the Department of Agrarian Reform.
“We will recommend the filing of criminal charges against Mr. Smith if our investigation points us to this action. However, the Quezon City Police Department must file charges now if evidence so warrants,” said Estrella.
The Secretary further expressed his sincere apologies to the law enforcement officers involved in the incident and commended them for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to enforcing the law.
“Their dedication to upholding order and discipline on our roads, even in the face of name-dropping and attempted evasion, is commendable. The Department of Agrarian Reform fully supports their efforts to ensure accountability and maintain public order,” Estrella added.
Smith, who was hired as a Contract of Service worker, was designated as an Administrative Support Staff IV under the office of Asst. Secretary Sadiarin.