LTFRB summons taxi operator over livestreaming driver

MANILA, Philippines — After a taxi driver was caught livestreaming on social media while driving, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board ordered its operator to appear before the LTFRB and explain.

LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said the driver’s act is in violation of the memorandum circular, which reminded operators of public utility vehicles (PUV) to advise their drivers not to engage in vlogging and other social media content creation while driving.

The memorandum reinforces the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, which was enacted to safeguard the public from road crashes that stem from the use of mobile communication devices as well as electronic entertainment and computing devices while behind the wheel.

“We made it clear to the PUV operators that we will not tolerate such action because it endangers the lives of not only the driver and passengers but also other road users,” Mendoza said.

The memorandum was issued after the LTFRB social media team noticed an increase in the number of PUV drivers engaged in vlogging and content creation while operating vehicles.

In some cases, the vlogging and content creation were being done while there were passengers on board.

In the show-cause order, the LTFRB asked the PUV operator to explain in writing within three days after receipt why its certificate of public convenience should not be suspended or canceled.

According to the LTFRB, the driver’s vlogging while operating a PUV is in violation of Section 2, Item 1 of Memorandum Circular 2026-050.

The penalty for the violation is P5,000.

“All our roads will be safer once we work together to run after abusive and erring drivers who compromise road safety. Please let us know of any violation and we will take care of the rest,” Mendoza urged the public.

Meanwhile, the LTFRB has denied the allegation that it is delaying the approval of new transport network vehicle service units and the onboarding of TNVS drivers.

“To set the record straight, the LTFRB has already issued a memorandum circular, which clearly states the immediate cessation of onboarding of operators, drivers and units of TNVS, except those with verified and valid franchise or provisional authority,” the agency said.

The LTFRB said it has no intention to make the ride-hailing service operation difficult, especially for drivers.

“Such a move was intended to protect not only our partners in the TNVS but also the riding public against unsafe unit drivers who are not qualified to operate as well as to run after those who dare to abuse the privilege granted by the government to operate,” the LTFRB said.