LTO suspends driver’s license over knife threat

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has suspended for 90 days the license of a driver accredited by ride-hailing platform InDrive after a video showing him threatening passengers with a bladed weapon went viral on social media.

The incident stemmed from a disagreement over the passengers’ drop-off point, according to the LTO.

LTO officer-in-charge Gregorio Pua Jr. said the agency has issued a show-cause order to the driver, asking him to explain why his license should not be permanently revoked.

Pua said the driver’s conduct was unacceptable, especially for someone responsible for passenger safety.

“This driver chose the wrong profession. He is not looking for honest work, but for trouble and lawsuits,” Pua said.

Based on initial investigation, the driver got hold of a knife and threatened to stab the passengers after allegedly forcing them out of the vehicle.

The driver is facing complaints for reckless driving under Section 48 of Republic Act 4136, and for being an improper person to operate a motor vehicle under Section 27(a) of the same law.

The registered owner of the vehicle was also summoned by the LTO.

Aside from the 90-day license suspension, the LTO also placed the vehicle under alarm status, which may restrict its registration and transaction processes pending the outcome of the probe.