LTFRB to probe pipe-wielding Uber driver

An official of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday said that he would look into a stewardess’ complaint that was posted on social media against an Uber driver who reportedly threatened her with a steel pipe.

Board member Ariel Inton said that based on her post, Christine Fulgencio, a Delta flight stewardess, booked a ride through the Uber app in Valle Verde, Pasig City, on Sept. 24.

The driver was identified as Niccolo Lizaso whose Vios had only a conduction sticker (VP 7587).

In her post, Fulgencio said the driver “threw a fit” because she did not input the correct address of her location. He also claimed that she looked down on him because he was just a driver.

“He got out of the car and opened my door, took a big pipe and was shouting, cussing and saliva was coming out of his mouth,” she added.

Fulgencio said she kept telling the driver to calm down. He eventually went back to his car and sped off, leaving her.

According to Inton, the LTFRB could look into the franchise application for the Vios. “If it was issued a provisional authority, then I will recommend [its] cancellation. If it has none, then the unit is [operating illegally]] and must be meted the proper penalty,” he said.

“We must apply the same vigilance we exercise when a driver of an ordinary taxi is involved. [There should be no] special treatment [for] Uber drivers,” he added.