MANILA, Philippines — The executive director of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has been suspended for 90 days by the Department of Transportation for allegedly receiving bribes.

Samuel Jardin was also formally charged for grave misconduct for soliciting money amounting to P4.8 million in exchange of the issuance of a Certificate of Public Convenience and "receiving for personal use of a fee, gift or other valuable thing" for receiving P4.6 million for the promise of the granting of a franchise.

Jardin, moreover, was charged administratively for his conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service “for committing acts that clearly run contrary to the policy of promoting a high standard of ethics in the public service and for tarnishing the image and integrity of her public office.”

The LTFRB executive director was required to submit a reply, including documentary evidence.

In a statement, the DOTr said it “resounds its stern warning that disciplinary action shall come swift and unrelenting to any official or employee, no matter the rank, for the slightest hint of corruption.” — Gaea Katreena Cabico