GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Authorities have initiated an investigation into a viral tricycle incident after a female passenger reported alleged sexual harassment, intimidation and disturbing behavior by a driver during a ride in General Santos City, prompting renewed calls for passenger safety and accountability in public transportation.
The incident came to public attention after a netizen shared her account on September 25, describing an unsettling experience during what she said was a tricycle ride that left her frightened and in need of assistance to get home.
According to the passenger’s account, she initially hesitated to board the tricycle because she felt uncomfortable, but claimed the driver persistently urged her to get on. Once aboard, the driver allegedly began asking personal questions, including what she was doing at the plaza and whether she had a boyfriend.
The passenger said she chose not to answer. However, she alleged that the driver subsequently made a threatening remark, saying, “Who is your boyfriend? I’ll kill him,” before continuing to speak in Bisaya, much of which she said she could not understand.
At the time, another passenger, an elderly man, was also riding in the tricycle. The woman said she was uncertain whether he noticed the driver’s alleged behavior.
Her account further alleged that the driver continued traveling around while looking for additional passengers, leaving her unsure of their destination. After the elderly passenger was dropped off, the driver reportedly stopped to buy peanuts and placed money on her legs, while asking her to hold the purchase temporarily.
The passenger said these actions heightened her discomfort and suspicion, particularly as she felt the vehicle was taking an unfamiliar route.
She then alleged that the driver engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior while driving. The passenger said she became increasingly frightened and eventually decided to act when the tricycle approached the KCC area, where another passenger reportedly flagged down the vehicle.
She seized the opportunity to get off, confronted the driver and warned another student who was about to board the tricycle not to take the ride.
The woman said she subsequently sought assistance in getting home and expressed gratitude to an elderly man who helped her and offered comfort. In her post, she also disclosed that she was still experiencing panic following the incident.
Driver voluntarily appears; tricycle impounded
In an official update regarding the viral tricycle video, the concerned authorities said the driver voluntarily went to their office to provide his account and clarification about the incident.
The individual involved also reportedly appeared at the office accompanied by a sibling to coordinate with authorities and provide relevant information.
As part of the verification process, officials requested the driver’s license and the necessary documents for the tricycle. However, authorities said he was unable to present the required documents at the time of verification.
Consequently, he was issued a citation ticket, while the tricycle was impounded in accordance with applicable laws, local ordinances and established procedures.
Authorities also endorsed the parties involved to Police Station 1’s Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) for appropriate handling, documentation and investigation.
The police investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported incident and determine whether further action is warranted under the law.
In its statement, the concerned office emphasized that the update was intended to provide preliminary clarification to the public. Any determination of liability and corresponding legal action will depend on the investigation’s findings and the due process of law.
Authorities urge public to avoid unverified claims
Authorities also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to respect the rights of everyone involved while the investigation is ongoing.
The incident has drawn attention to the importance of passenger safety, particularly for women and students who rely on public transportation for their daily activities.
The passenger’s account underscores the importance of taking reports of intimidation and alleged sexual misconduct seriously, while ensuring that allegations are properly documented and investigated by the appropriate authorities.
For now, the driver’s appearance at the authorities’ office, the issuance of a citation ticket and the impoundment of the tricycle are the confirmed actions described in the official update. The allegations of harassment and inappropriate behavior remain subject to police investigation.