A retired general, who has been designated to oversee the traffic operations of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Thursday warned motorcycle-riding enforcers to better shape up or get out of the agency.

General Danilo Gaoiran made the warning when he met with several motorcycle-riding enforcers, who man the traffic along major thoroughfares in the metropolis.

“We are serious here. Expect that there will be changes here. I will be inspecting and assessing your performance from time to time and intensifying counter-intelligence in the conduct of traffic operations,” Gaoiran told traffic enforcers.

The retired general said he will assess the deployment of motorcycle-riding enforcers especially in critical areas where control of vehicular traffic flow, especially during peak hours, is needed.

“I will reevaluate your deployment and there will be a rotation of enforcers,” said Gaoiran.

He said there will also be a crackdown on alleged corruption on the streets involving MMDA personnel.

For instance, Gaoiran said that MMDA is taking action against traffic enforcers who will be charged of extorting from motorists or accepting money from motorists suspected of committing traffic violations.

“I do not want to hear reports that you are mulcting motorists or you will be punished. You have no place in the agency. All you have to do is enforce, enforce,” Gaoiran warned.

In an executive order, MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino designated Gaoiran as supervising consultant of the Traffic and Transport Management Office (TTMO), noting that he will report directly to the chairman.

Gaoiran was formerly assigned at the Security Agencies and Guards Supervisory Division of the Philippine National Police and just retired a few months ago.

He will be working under the office of Noemi Recio, designated as office in-charge of TTMO, replacing Angelito Vergel De Dios.

De Dios was reassigned as Director IV for health, public safety and environmental protection, after serving as traffic head of the agency for nine years.

In the same order, Tolentino revoked the previous designation of Roberto “Bobby” Esquivel as consultant of the agency on traffic-related matters. Esquivel was a former MMDA Sidewalk Clearing Operations Group head, who ran and lost in the mayoralty race in Norzagaray last election.