The Philippine Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced the revocation of a bus driver's license for openly using his mobile phone for online gambling while on duty, posing a serious threat to public safety.
This incident occurred on the Silang to Dasmariñas route on Luzon Island. A passenger recorded a video showing the driver operating his phone and browsing gambling apps while driving. The video quickly went viral on social media, sparking outrage among netizens who criticized his actions as "gambling with passengers' lives."
The driver was employed by Kristine Joyce Transport Company, and the LTO has suspended him for 90 days and ordered him to submit a written explanation as to why his license should not be permanently revoked. Additionally, the driver will face formal charges of "reckless driving" and "distracted driving."
Gregg Pua, the acting director of the Land Transportation Office, strongly condemned the behavior: "This is not only a traffic violation but also a blatant provocation to the safety of passengers' lives. Gamblers should not be behind the wheel."
Not only the driver, but his employer, Kristine Joyce Transport Company, was also not exempt from responsibility. The transportation office demanded an explanation from the company on why they employed such an irresponsible individual and to investigate any negligence in supervision. Failure to submit a written explanation within the specified deadline will be considered a waiver of the right to defend, and penalties will be imposed based on the existing evidence.
Broader Concerns Triggered by Gambling Issues
The incident has once again raised significant concerns about the dangers of online gambling in Philippine society. The government is already advancing legislation to restrict or even completely prohibit public participation in online gambling activities.
The Philippine Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has also stepped in to investigate, focusing on the financial networks and organizational structures behind illegal gambling platforms. Additionally, officials are urging social media influencers and content creators to immediately stop advertising for underground gambling platforms to prevent the further infiltration of "gambling culture" into the youth.
This incident is not only about the misconduct of a driver but also a wake-up call from the Philippine authorities regarding the rampant issue of online gambling.
