DAR terminates contract worker who fled from traffic enforcers

Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado Estrella III has ordered the immediate dismissal of a DAR contract worker, Russel Smith, who fled from traffic enforcers after being flagged down for a traffic violation.

Estrella directed DAR Assistant Secretary Ubaldo Sadiarin Jr. to ensure Smith surrenders to authorities and takes responsibility for his actions.

Smith was apprehended on Timog Avenue for illegal parking and refused to present his driver's license before speeding away.

During the apprehension, Smith reportedly invoked Secretary Estrella's name to evade responsibility.

Estrella apologized to the traffic enforcers for the incident and praised their professionalism, denying any direct connection with Smith.

Estrella stated he does not condone the misuse of his name and emphasized his personal values of a simple life.

Regardless of investigation findings, Smith's contract will not be renewed and he will be permanently barred from future DAR employment.