LTFRB suspends ride-hailing vehicle, issues SCO over viral harassment post

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday issued a show cause order (SCO) against Green and Smart Mobility Philippines, Inc. following a viral social media post alleging sexual harassment by one of its drivers against a female passenger.

LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said the company was also ordered to present before the Board the driver identified in the viral post.

“This is not acceptable. I saw the viral video himself at bilang isang magulang, nakakagalit ang ginawa ng driver na ito. We already issued a show cause order and I will personally monitor the conduct of the investigation of this case,” Mendoza said.

“We assure the victim and his family and friends na hindi namin palalagpasin ito,” he added, saying the LTFRB’s swift action is in line with the directive of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to protect the riding public and hold erring drivers accountable.

In the viral post, the netizen alleged that the driver of an electric vehicle ride-hailing service repeatedly asked inappropriate questions of his female passenger during the trip. The driver allegedly suggested rerouting around C5 Road and slowed down the vehicle several times while continuing to ask inappropriate questions.

The passenger was reportedly traumatized by the incident but was able to return home safely.

Under the SCO, the LTFRB ordered the 30-day suspension of the operation of the motor vehicle involved, bearing license plate number DBV-1863, pending the outcome of the investigation. The driver was also directed to undergo compulsory drug testing through an accredited agency of the Department of Health and the Land Transportation Office.

“Respondent-operator, Green and Smart Mobility Philippines, Inc. is hereby directed to surrender the plates of the involved unit, to the Legal Division of this Board immediately upon receipt of this Order,” the SCO stated.

The operator was likewise ordered to explain within five days from receipt of the SCO why its Certificate of Public Convenience should not be cancelled or revoked in connection with the incident.