LTFRB backs database for blacklisted passengers

FILE: Aileen Lourdes A. Lizada (Photo: LTFRB Citizen Enforcer/Facebook)

MANILA — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has expressed support to the proposed common database for blacklisted passengers of transportation network companies (TNCs) to help deter carjacking and other crimes involving transportation network vehicle services (TNVS).

The Board welcomes the proposal as it will be helpful in the investigation of carnapping incidents following the killing of Grab driver Gerardo Maquidato Jr. last month.

“It’s a very good move as the TNCs will be able to police their own ranks,” LTFRB board member and spokesperson Aileen Lizada said in a text message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

The database of TNVS drivers which are accredited by the LTFRB will be posted on its official website soon according to Lizada.

The LTFRB is eyeing to create a Technical Working Group consisting of TNC and TNVS representatives that will craft and implement measures to ensure the security of drivers.

Grab proposed a shared common database for blacklisted passengers with other ridesharing firms to ensure safety of both drivers and passengers.

Grab is currently developing a digital solution and vows to cooperate with the PNP-HPG to deter carjacking incidents involving their TNVS which are being booked by criminals posing as legitimate passengers.

The Pasay City Police have identified the suspect behind the killing of Maquidato as 25-year-old Narc Tulod Delemios.

He was Maquidato’s last passenger before the victim was found dead along Bonanza Street in Pasay City.

The suspect was identified through the help of his live-in partner who coordinated with the police and admitted that Delemios used her cellphone to book a Grab car.

The suspect was formally presented Wednesday to Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Ronald Dela Rosa who considered the case closed. (PNA)