Gabriel Go
Despite recent controversy stemming from a viral video, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Monday that it will retain Gabriel Go as head of its Special Operations Group-Strike Force (SOG-SF), a unit tasked with clearing road obstructions in Metro Manila.
In a statement, the agency confirmed that Go will remain in his post but will be required to undergo a comprehensive five-day training program. The course will focus on leadership, courtesy, discipline, and traffic management—while placing a strong emphasis on stress and anger management. This initiative will be supervised by Edison “Bong” Nebrija of the MMDA Traffic Education Division.
“The MMDA has opted to retain Gabriel Go as head of the SOG-SF,” the agency said. “However, under the directive of Chairman Atty. Don Artes, he will participate in mentorship and training to reinforce proper conduct and professionalism in the field.”
The move comes after Go was the subject of both public scrutiny and an administrative complaint following an altercation with Police Captain Erik Felipe during a clearing operation in Quezon City. The incident, which was captured on video and widely circulated online, showed Go berating the officer over motorcycles allegedly parked illegally on the sidewalk in front of a police station.
While Captain Felipe later issued an apology regarding the incident, Go reportedly found the manner in which it was delivered disrespectful. In response, Go posted the video online, leading to widespread backlash and a cyber libel complaint filed by Felipe.
Following an internal investigation, the MMDA’s Legal and Legislative Affairs Staff found Go guilty of “simple discourtesy” and issued a formal reprimand along with a stern warning that any future misconduct would result in more serious disciplinary action.
In light of the incident, the MMDA reiterated its policy of professionalism among its personnel, emphasizing the importance of exercising restraint and diplomacy when dealing with the public—even in confrontational situations.
“The agency constantly reminds all its traffic enforcers to handle confrontations with calm and composure, and to uphold the highest standards of courtesy and professionalism in all official engagements,” the MMDA added.