LTO Suspends License Of InDrive Driver Who Threatened Passengers Using Bladed Weapon In Viral Video
LTO Suspends License Of InDrive Driver Who Threatened Passengers Using Bladed Weapon In Viral Video. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has taken swift and decisive action after a shocking incident involving an InDrive driver went viral on social media. This alarming case, where a driver threatened passengers with a bladed weapon, highlights serious concerns about the safety of passengers using ride-hailing services in the Philippines.
Following the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr., the LTO under the supervision of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon wasted no time in investigating the matter. Their primary aim? To uphold public trust in the country’s transport system and ensure every passenger’s journey is safe.
What Happened? A Quick Recap of the Incident
The viral video revealed disturbing footage: a driver of an InDrive-accredited vehicle brandishing a knife and threatening his passengers after an argument over their destination. According to initial reports, the driver forcibly made the passengers get off the vehicle and then proceeded to intimidate them with a knife, escalating a simple misunderstanding into a terrifying experience.
Acting Assistant Secretary and LTO Chief Atty. Greg G. Pua, Jr. strongly condemned the driver’s conduct, saying:
“Maling propesyon ang napasukan ng driver na ito, Hindi hanapbuhay ang hanap nito kundi basag ulo at asunto,”
which translates to the idea that the driver is in the wrong profession — instead of earning an honest living, he seems more interested in causing harm and inviting lawsuits.
Immediate Action: LTO Suspends License and Issues Show Cause Orders
Recognising the gravity of the threat, the LTO suspended the driver’s license for 90 days. This is a critical step to prevent him from endangering more lives on the road.
But the agency didn’t stop there. The driver was also served with a Show Cause Order (SCO), compelling him to explain why his license should not be permanently revoked.
Here’s a summary of the charges filed against the driver and the vehicle owner:
| Person Involved | Charges Filed & Actions Taken |
|---|---|
| InDrive driver | – Suspended license for 90 days – Ordered to explain why his license shouldn’t be revoked – Facing charges under Section 48 (Reckless Driving) and Section 27(a) (Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle) of R.A. 4136 |
| Registered vehicle owner | – Ordered to explain why she should not be held liable for Employing a Reckless Driver under DOTC Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01 |
Additionally, the vehicle involved has been placed under alarm status, preventing any possible transfer of ownership or registration activities until the investigation concludes.
Legal Provisions Invoked by the LTO
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) relied on several key legal frameworks to pursue charges against the driver and protect the riding public:
- Section 48 of R.A. 4136 (Reckless Driving): Penalises any driver operating a vehicle without due caution, potentially endangering life or property.
- Section 27(a) of R.A. 4136 (Improper Person to Operate a Motor Vehicle): Disqualifies individuals who show violent or unstable behaviour from holding a driver’s license.
- DOTC Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01: Holds vehicle owners accountable for employing reckless or unqualified drivers.
These laws underline the government’s commitment to holding not just drivers, but also vehicle owners, accountable for ensuring safety on Philippine roads.
The Bigger Picture: Passenger Safety in Ride-Hailing Services
This incident raises bigger concerns about passenger safety in ride-hailing services like InDrive. While these platforms have transformed the convenience of commuting, they also introduce new risks. Screening and continuous monitoring of driver behaviour are critical.
Experts suggest that ride-hailing companies should strengthen:
- Background checks: Including criminal records and mental health assessments.
- Regular training: Covering anger management, emergency protocols, and customer service.
- Real-time monitoring: Using GPS data and emergency buttons within apps for faster response.
Such steps are crucial to ensuring that incidents like this do not erode the public’s trust in ride-hailing services.
The LTO and DOTr: Ensuring Continued Road Safety
By acting swiftly, the LTO under the guidance of DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon has sent a strong message: threatening passenger safety will not be tolerated.
These agencies are doubling down on their mission to create a secure, reliable, and professional transport system. Future initiatives may include:
- Tighter accreditation processes for drivers on ride-hailing platforms.
- Random spot checks and mystery rider operations to monitor driver behaviour.
- Public awareness campaigns to inform passengers about their rights and emergency contacts.
FAQs About the InDrive Driver Incident and LTO Action
Why did the LTO suspend the driver’s license immediately?
Ans: The LTO suspended the driver’s license to protect the public from a clear and present danger. Given the evidence from the viral video showing him threatening passengers with a knife, this pre-emptive action ensures he cannot operate any motor vehicle while investigations continue.
Can the driver’s license be permanently revoked?
Ans: Yes. The driver has been served a Show Cause Order (SCO) and must justify why his license should not be permanently cancelled. If he fails to give satisfactory reasons or if further evidence proves him unfit, the LTO can revoke his license under Section 27(a) of R.A. 4136.
What can passengers do if they feel threatened by a ride-hailing driver?
Ans: Passengers should:
- Exit the vehicle safely if possible.
- Call the local police hotline immediately.
- Report the incident to the ride-hailing company and to the LTO.
Most apps like InDrive also have an in-app emergency button that instantly shares your ride details with emergency contacts.
Conclusion
This case involving the InDrive driver who threatened passengers with a bladed weapon is a sobering reminder of the dangers that can arise in public transportation. The LTO’s immediate suspension of the driver’s license, coupled with legal actions against both the driver and the vehicle owner, shows the Philippine government’s firm resolve to safeguard passenger welfare.
