Manila police warn motorists: Verify parking attendants' IDs
Published Dec 15, 2025 01:18 pm
The Manila Police District–Special Mayor’s Reaction Team (MPD-SMaRT) advised motorists to verify the identity and legitimacy of parking attendants collecting fees in designated parking areas in the city.
The warning was issued by MPD-SMaRT chief Police Major Edward Samonte following the successful arrest of three individuals who were posing as parking attendants in several areas of Binondo, Manila.
The arrested illegal parking attendants. (Photos courtesy of Manila Police District )
According to Samonte, the suspects were apprehended in Asuncion, Barangay 270, and at the corner of Madrid and Peña Rubia streets in Barangay 272 after allegedly charging unauthorized and excessive parking fees to motorists.
During a three-day operation, authorities arrested the suspects identified as alias “Roger,” 47, a barangay tanod and resident of J. De Moriones Street; alias “Rolly,” 53, a resident of Madrid Street, San Nicolas; and alias “Joan,” 43, who was reported to be associated with Roger.
Investigation revealed that the three are not legitimate members of the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB) and were illegally collecting parking fees beyond the rates set by the city government.
The suspects allegedly charged at least P150 for private vehicles and between P300 and P1,500 for large trucks parking in the Divisoria and Binondo areas. Samonte noted that the excessive charges placed a heavy burden on motorists, particularly on traders and delivery drivers transporting vegetables and other goods to vendors in Divisoria. Authorities are now determining whether the suspects have accomplices involved in the illegal operation. Samonte said Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso had ordered the cessation of abusive and illegal collection practices that victimized the public.
He warned other individuals against engaging in similar illegal activities, stressing that violators will be held accountable under the law.
“We urge motorists to always ask for and verify the official ID of parking attendants before paying parking fees to avoid falling victim to this scheme. Do not hesitate to report suspicious activities to our office so we can take immediate action,” Samonte said.
The three suspects are currently detained at MPD-SMaRT headquarters and are facing charges for violation of Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code, or Usurpation of Authority and Official Functions.