OPERATIVES of Manila’s Special Mayors Reaction Team (S.Ma.R.T.) arrested three men on October 7, 2026, for allegedly posing as authorized parking personnel and extorting excessive fees along Adriatico Street in Malate, Manila.
The suspects were identified as Roel Grayda y Huarde, 37; Emerson Adonis y Acosta, 26; and Jervin Cordial, 23—all residents of Malate.
They were caught in flagrante delicto right in front of the Rizal Memorial Stadium.
The operation stemmed from a complaint received through the Bilis Kilos Action Center Citizens’ Complaint Hotline at Manila City Hall.
Complainants reported that unauthorized individuals were misrepresenting themselves as personnel of the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB) and unlawfully collecting inflated parking fees from motorists.
Acting on the tip, S.Ma.R.T. operatives led by PLT Ryan O. Valenzuela and supervised by PLTCOL Cicero M. Pura conducted surveillance using an unmarked vehicle.
During the operation, the suspects approached the undercover operatives and demanded parking fees well above the rates authorized by the City Government of Manila.
When confronted about the irregular charges, the suspects gave evasive answers and failed to present valid identification or any proof of official authority when police identified themselves, prompting their immediate arrest.
Following their apprehension, the suspects were read their constitutional rights, underwent routine medical examinations, and were brought to the S.Ma.R.T. office for documentation.
Appropriate criminal charges for violation of Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code (Usurpation of Authority or Official Functions) are currently being prepared for inquest proceedings before the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office.
