The city government of Davao has ordered Vietnam-based electric ride-hailing service Green GSM Philippines to immediately comply with all local permit and regulatory requirements, stressing that the company cannot legally operate in the city until these are secured.
The order was issued on Monday following Green GSM’s launch of its all-electric taxi service in Davao City.
The company’s entry into Davao City forms part of a nationwide expansion plan that includes the deployment of at least 1,000 electric taxis through a partnership with a local distributor.
However, the city government of Davao emphasized in a statement that the company has yet to secure several key permits, including a business permit, locational clearance, and building permit for its facilities.
The city government also said Green GSM has not obtained the required endorsements from the City Transport and Traffic Management Board (CTTMB) and the Sangguniang Panlungsod for its franchise application with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), as mandated under the Comprehensive Transport and Traffic Code Ordinance of Davao City (Ordinance No. 0334-12).
“Until all required permits are fully obtained and complied with, their operations are considered illegal,” the city government said.
The city government further urged the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the LTFRB to look into Green GSM’s operations following its launch.
While reiterating its support for environmentally friendly transport initiatives, the city government of Davao emphasized that compliance with local laws and ordinances remains non-negotiable.
“We support cleaner transportation, but companies that bypass regulations will not be allowed to operate in Davao City,” the statement said.
Green GSM operates an all-electric fleet of VinFast vehicles, with Davao City marking its first major expansion outside Metro Manila as it promotes cleaner and more sustainable urban transportation.
