THE Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP) strongly criticizes the statement and threats made by Florida Bus Inc. to press charges against the uploader of a viral video allegedly showing several of its buses speeding or racing. Fortunately, Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon swiftly assured the public that the uploader will be supported and provided with legal assistance should charges be filed.
LCSP firmly believes that public utility vehicle (PUV) operators accused of violations should address such allegations through proper legal channels and focus on presenting their defenses before the relevant authorities. They must not resort to intimidating citizen reporters or threatening them with lawsuits. In fact, the increasing vigilance of ordinary citizens in reporting traffic violations should be encouraged and protected—not punished.
A model example of how PUV operators should respond can be seen in the recent case involving Taxi Hub, whose driver was caught on video allegedly overcharging a passenger ₱1,260 for a short trip from NAIA Terminal 3 to Terminal 2. When summoned by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for a hearing on June 19, 2025, the driver, through his legal counsel Atty. Noel Valerio, focused on presenting his defense. He even exposed the alleged involvement of five (5) airport police officers who reportedly orchestrated the overcharging scheme and demanded a 40% cut of the fare.
Notably, neither the driver nor the operator took action against the uploader, despite the possibility of invoking Republic Act No. 4200 (Anti-Wiretapping Law), since the video could arguably constitute a non-consensual recording of private communication. Instead of weaponizing this law, the taxi driver and his operator chose to address the matter constructively and highlight the larger systemic issue at hand.
Florida Bus Inc. should have followed this example. If they believe the video was manipulated—such as being fast-forwarded to exaggerate the speeding—they should simply present that defense to the authorities. Resorting to legal threats against the uploader only undermines public trust and discourages civic engagement.
LCSP commends the DOTr for its prompt and decisive stance in defending the uploader. This sends a strong message: concerned citizens who report possible violations by PUVs will be supported and protected by the government. We must foster a culture where public participation in transport safety is valued, not silenced.
Atty. Albert N. Sadili
Spokesperson – Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection
09660859816
