Manila, Philippines – Green GSM has launched an internal investigation after one of its drivers participated in a viral staged robbery prank that prompted Philippine transport regulators to suspend the electric taxi unit and open an investigation.
In a statement, the ride-hailing operator said the prank was carried out without its prior knowledge, approval, or authorisation, adding that the driver neither informed the company before taking part nor reported the incident immediately afterward.
“Any conduct that could reasonably create fear, alarm, confusion, or the perception of criminal activity is inconsistent with the professional, safety, operational, and customer service standards expected of drivers operating under the Green GSM brand,” the company said.
Green GSM stressed that it does not permit company-affiliated vehicles or services to be used in activities that could lead the public to believe a crime or public safety incident is taking place.
The company said it has begun a thorough internal review and will take appropriate action in accordance with its policies and applicable regulations. It is also assessing additional safeguards to strengthen oversight and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Green GSM added that it is cooperating with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which has suspended the electric taxi unit involved for 30 days pending investigation and is set to issue a show cause order against Green and Smart Mobility Philippines, Inc.
The regulator’s action followed the circulation of a video showing a driver announcing a robbery before two vloggers entered the vehicle pretending to be armed robbers as part of a staged prank.
LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor Mendoza II said the stunt undermined public confidence in taxis and transport network vehicle services (TNVS).
“Hindi ito nakakatuwa, sa halip, ito ay naghahatid ng takot sa ating mga kababayan na regular na sumasakay ng taxi at TNVS. We will look into this and we assure that appropriate disciplinary measures will be done,” Mendoza said.
(“This is not amusing. Instead, it instills fear among our fellow Filipinos who regularly ride taxis and transport network vehicle services. We will investigate this, and we assure the public that appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken.”)
According to the LTFRB, the incident may constitute a violation of public utility vehicle operating conditions, particularly the obligation to provide safe and secure public transportation services.
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