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Former Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board employee Jeffrey Tumbado retracted allegations of corruption within the agency, citing a lack of proper thought and external influence
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Tumbado’s initial accusations, made on behalf of the Manibela transport group during an October 9 press conference, prompted an investigation and the suspension of LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III
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Still, Tumbado maintained problems exist within the LTFRB that require investigation by the authorities
Former Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) employee Jeffrey Tumbado has recanted allegations of corruption within the agency, the Department of Transportation and the Office of the President.
Tumbado expressed remorse and clarified his stance in an affidavit of recantation signed on October 11.
In his affidavit, Tumbado attributed his earlier statements made during a press conference by the Manibela transport group on October 9, to “impulse, irrational thinking, misjudgment, poor decision making, and influence from certain individuals.” He confessed external pressures contributed to his confusion and compromised his judgment.
“After a careful reflection and deliberation, it is my honest desire to reiterate whatever allegations may have been said during the press conference on October 9, 2023, where the public declaration was made, were all unintentional and misguided,” Tumbado said.
Tumbado’s corruption accusations led to the suspension of LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. Tumbado was formerly the executive assistant of Guadiz.
LTFRB board member Atty. Mercy Jane Paras-Leynes was appointed as officer-in-charge chairperson of the LTFRB until October 9, 2024.
Tumbado’s said his affidavit serves as a public apology to Guadiz, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, and the Office of the President.
Still, Tumbado maintained that problems exist within the LTFRB that require investigation by the authorities.
Bautista on October 11 vehemently denied involvement in any corrupt activities and expressed his intention to take legal action against those tarnishing his reputation.