DAVAO CITY — A 70-year-old tricycle driver was robbed at knifepoint by two alleged lesbian suspects while ferrying passengers in Barangay Bago Oshiro, Tugbok District, near the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) compound on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
The victim, identified only as “Lolo Al,” a resident of Barangay Mintal, recounted in an interview with a local media outlet that he was plying his route in Mintal when two individuals hired his motorized tricycle, locally known as a bao-bao, for a trip to Toril, agreeing to pay ₱500.
According to Lolo Al, the passengers instructed him to take a shortcut through Barangay Bago Oshiro. Upon reaching the area, one of the passengers allegedly pulled out a bladed weapon and declared a holdup.
The elderly driver pleaded with the suspects not to take his wallet, explaining that it contained his driver’s license. Despite his appeal, the suspects reportedly took ₱2,300 in cash — money he had recently received as senior citizen financial assistance.
Lolo Al said he believed the two suspects were lesbians, describing them as “tomboy,” a term commonly used to refer to masculine-presenting women. Authorities, however, have yet to confirm the identities or backgrounds of the suspects.
The victim’s son, who asked to be identified only as “Van,” said the family is grateful that his father was not physically harmed but stressed that the fear and trauma he experienced cannot be undone.
“We’re thankful he’s alive, but the fear he felt at that moment is something no amount of money can replace,” Van said.
The family has been encouraged to formally report the incident to the police to ensure proper documentation, alert authorities to the crime, and improve the chances of identifying and apprehending the suspects.
The incident underscores the safety risks faced by elderly public transport drivers, particularly those operating in less-populated areas, as authorities continue to urge vigilance and prompt reporting of crimes.