It’s one thing to take a break — it’s another to go viral for it. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is now investigating two of its personnel after they were caught on video seemingly playing Mobile Legends during work hours.
The clip, taken inside a convenience store in Quezon City, quickly made the rounds online, showing the two employees huddled over their phones, deeply focused on the popular online game. Viewers were quick to ask: were they on duty, or just taking a well-deserved breather?
According to MMDA Traffic Education Division chief Edison Nebrija Jr., that’s exactly what the agency is trying to find out. “We’re checking if the video was taken during their official break or beyond their designated rest periods,” he told reporters.
MMDA traffic enforcers, Nebrija explained, are allowed a one-hour lunch break and two 15-minute rest breaks per shift. So technically, if the gaming session happened during one of those, it might not be a violation. But if not? That’s another story.
Nebrija also clarified that the video didn’t appear to show any form of online betting or gambling — something that would have been a much bigger offense. “There’s no indication of e-gambling,” he said. “But we’ll still review whether the behavior was proper while wearing the MMDA uniform.”
Disciplinary action could still follow if the personnel are found to have neglected their duties. “Government service is public service,” Nebrija added. “Any act that compromises that responsibility has to be addressed.”
The incident sparked debate among social media users. Some argued that everyone deserves a few minutes to unwind, especially traffic enforcers who spend long hours under the sun. Others countered that public servants, especially in uniform, should always be mindful of how their actions reflect on the agency.
Meanwhile, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has reminded all government employees of the clear rule: no gambling, online or otherwise, during office hours. In a recent advisory, the CSC said that any form of betting — even through digital platforms — is prohibited while on duty.
Violators could face administrative charges for “conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service,” which can mean suspension or dismissal depending on the case.
CSC Chairperson Marilyn B. Yap emphasized that discipline in the public service extends to digital behavior. “Government work requires integrity and accountability. Agencies must ensure employees are focused on their duties,” she said.
While the MMDA’s probe focuses on gaming rather than gambling, the case sheds light on how digital habits can blur the line between work and play — especially in a connected world where a quick game can easily turn into a public controversy.
Whether the enforcers were just taking a short break or breaking the rules, one thing’s clear: in the age of smartphones, even a few taps on a screen can land you in the spotlight.
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