Kotong is a form of bribery where traffic officers ask for money in exchange for ignoring traffic violations.
It’s a long-standing problem that many drivers, especially jeepney, tricycle, and delivery drivers, face every day.
These “under-the-table” deals are often made on the side of the road, with some officers using threats or confusing traffic rules to pressure people into paying.
There’s no official fee for kotong—only pressure, fear, and injustice.
And even though it’s illegal, many citizens don’t know how or where to report it.
What Exactly Is Kotong?
Kotong, or kotongan, is an illegal practice where traffic enforcers or police officers ask for bribes.
This usually happens during roadside inspections or minor violations like swerving, coding, or not wearing a seatbelt.
Instead of issuing a ticket, the officer hints at a “shortcut.”
Sometimes, they’ll say things like:
- “Baka puwede nating ayusin ’to.”
- “Huwag na tayong mag-abala sa papel.”
- “Kape lang, boss.”
These coded phrases are used to avoid directly saying “bigay mo na ang lagay.”
The goal is to make you hand over money so they won’t issue a ticket or impound your vehicle.
It feels like you’re stuck between breaking the law or being taken advantage of.
And for many drivers, especially those earning just enough for daily expenses, paying kotong seems easier than dealing with paperwork, towing, or lost income.
Why Does Kotong Keep Happening?
Kotong is not just about one bad officer.
It’s a symptom of a bigger problem—corruption that’s been passed down through years of weak enforcement and lack of accountability.
Here’s why it still happens:
1. Fear and Confusion
Many motorists don’t know the traffic laws by heart.
So when an officer tells them they broke a rule, they panic.
This confusion makes them vulnerable to bribery.
2. Daily Pressure on Drivers
Jeepney, tricycle, and bus drivers live on a tight schedule.
One ticket or delay can mean lost income.
To avoid that, some give in to “areglos” or small bribes just to keep moving.
3. Lack of Witnesses or Proof
Most kotong happens when no one else is watching.
Officers know how to avoid being recorded.
They don’t give official receipts or write anything down.
This makes it hard to report them.
4. Culture of Tolerance
Some people think giving a small bribe is “just part of the system.”
Others believe it’s a normal way to deal with traffic officers.
This mindset lets corruption continue, unchecked.
Who Are the Most Affected?
Kotong affects all drivers, but some groups suffer more than others:
1. Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Drivers
They’re easy targets because they’re always on the road.
They also can’t afford long stops or lost trips.
2. Motorcycle Riders
Some enforcers single them out, especially in areas with strict rules but unclear signage.
3. Delivery Riders and Couriers
With the rise of online shopping, delivery workers are always rushing.
Some officers take advantage of their urgency.
4. First-Time Car Owners
Many new drivers don’t fully know the laws.
They’re more likely to panic and hand over money when threatened.
How Kotong Works
Knowing the pattern of a kotong attempt can help you stay calm and respond smartly.
Here’s how it usually happens:
Step 1: You’re flagged down.
The officer says you violated a rule—sometimes without showing proof.
Step 2: They avoid paperwork.
They won’t issue a ticket or let you see your violation clearly.
They might ask for your license and say things like “Ayusin na lang natin ’to.”
Step 3: They suggest a bribe.
Through hints or body language, they’ll pressure you to give cash.
Some might mention specific amounts or say “pang-kape lang.”
Step 4: You feel trapped.
At this point, many drivers give in just to avoid trouble or delays.
This is where the cycle continues.
Government Action Against Kotong
The government has made several efforts to stop kotong.
One of the most popular is the Text Anti-Kotong Program.
Here’s what it does:
What It Is:
A reporting system where people can report kotong incidents through SMS.
Who Can Use It:
Any citizen who has witnessed or experienced bribery by traffic enforcers.
How It Helps:
It gathers reports and forwards them to the proper authorities for investigation.
There are also hotline numbers and online reporting tools for various government agencies like the MMDA, LTO, and PNP.
In some cases, enforcers caught through this system have been removed from service or faced charges.
But the system works best when more people use it—and that’s where you come in.
How to Report a Kotong Incident
If you believe you’ve been asked for a bribe, follow these steps:
1. Stay calm and polite.
Don’t argue or raise your voice.
You have a better chance of resolving the issue if you remain respectful.
2. Get the officer’s details.
Take note of the officer’s name, badge number, location, and time of the incident.
If you can, take a photo or video discreetly.
3. Don’t give money.
Say you prefer an official ticket.
This protects you and shows you’re following the law.
4. Report through proper channels:
- LTO Hotline: 1-342-586
- MMDA Hotline: 136
- PNP Integrity Monitoring Group: 0998-970-2286
- Anti-Kotong Text Line: Check local updates for the latest number
You can also post anonymously on government Facebook pages or file a formal complaint at nearby offices.
Just make sure your report is detailed and includes names, places, and what was said.
Why Your Report Matters
Reporting kotong may feel like a hassle.
But every report adds pressure on corrupt officers.
It also helps honest officers do their jobs without getting lumped together with the bad ones.
And most of all—it gives power back to citizens.
Your small action could stop someone else from being victimized next.
Change doesn’t always start big.
Sometimes, it starts with saying no.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I get in trouble if I refuse to pay kotong?
No. If you haven’t done anything wrong, you can ask for an official ticket instead. Just stay respectful.
2. What if I don’t get the officer’s name?
Note other details like the location, time, type of vehicle, or any nearby landmarks. Every bit helps.
3. Is there a way to report anonymously?
Yes. Some hotlines and Facebook pages accept anonymous reports. Just make sure your details are complete.
4. What if the officer gets angry or threatens me?
Try to remain calm. Politely ask for a supervisor or record the incident if it feels safe to do so. Your safety comes first.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever handed over money just to avoid trouble, you’re not alone.
Kotong is frustrating, scary, and unfair.
But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
By understanding the system, knowing your rights, and using the tools available, you can protect yourself—and help clean up our roads.
You deserve honest service.
You deserve respect.
And now, you know what to do.