MANILA – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is currently investigating a serious case involving a Vietnamese national who was allegedly robbed and raped during a ride arranged through Grab Philippines. The regulatory body is contemplating imposing sanctions on the transport network vehicle service (TNVS) company, which could include suspension or fines.
According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB Chair Teofilo Guadiz III revealed that a letter demanding an explanation from Grab was issued, with the company given a five-day deadline to respond. Potential sanctions, which may involve suspending Grab’s app for up to 30 days or imposing fines, will depend on the outcome of the investigation. Guadiz emphasized the importance of due process in deciding the case.
Grab has responded by permanently banning the driver involved and has pledged full cooperation with the Philippine National Police (PNP) in their ongoing investigation. The company is also reaching out to the victim to offer support and assistance. The LTFRB has taken several steps, including filing a police report to verify the facts, contacting the victim for her account, and publicly urging caution among users of ride-hailing apps.
The incident reportedly occurred on September 5, when a Vietnamese woman was driven around Parañaque City by the driver, who was later joined by an accomplice. The victim was threatened, robbed of PHP 35,000, and then sexually assaulted. She was eventually released in Barangay San Dionisio, where she reported the crime to local police. The primary suspect was apprehended on September 7 in Cabuyao, Laguna, and has admitted to the robbery but attributed the rape to his accomplice, a claim supported by the victim’s testimony.