Taguig: The Philippine National Police (PNP) is crafting measures to further strengthen requests for assistance and other crime-related concerns of the ride-hailing services community. In a statement Tuesday, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. acknowledged the need to strengthen the protection of the Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) partners due to the risk they face every day that comes with the nature of their job.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong partnership and reliable communication line to ensure the safety and peace of mind of those in the TNVS community. His statement follows the recent robbery and fatal stabbing of a TNVS driver in Taguig City on March 11, an incident that gained widespread attention after a video circulated on social media.
Investigations have pointed to the individual who booked the ride as the mastermind behind the crime, allegedly conspiring with three accomplices. Two of these accomplices were apprehended shortly after the incident and are now facing robbery with homicide charges at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. A minor, linked to the primary suspect, was identified through CCTV footage and subsequently turned over to the police by the parents.
Taguig City police chief Col. Julius A±onuevo, in a phone interview, confirmed the involvement of the minor and the use of CCTV footage in identifying the suspects. He stated that follow-up operations are ongoing to locate the primary suspect, believed to be the leader of a group with a modus operandi of stealing motorcycles.
Nartatez reiterated that the TNVS community plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and order, acting as vigilant observers on the streets. To enhance security measures, the PNP has been intensifying patrols and increasing presence in high-risk areas. Efforts are also underway to strengthen coordination with local force multipliers, such as barangay tanods and volunteers, to ensure comprehensive monitoring, particularly during late-night hours.
In collaboration with TNVS platforms, the PNP is working on strategies to identify suspicious bookings and establish safety protocols for drivers, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.
