GV Florida No Longer Suing Uploader of Viral Bus Race Video
GV Florida Transport Inc. has decided to drop its legal complaint against Carlo Carbonel, the uploader of a viral video showing several of its buses allegedly racing on a public road.
The footage, which quickly spread online, sparked major public concern and led to the suspension of 15 GV Florida buses by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
Jun Florida, President of GV Florida, announced the withdrawal of the case during an interview on the program “Wanted sa Radyo.” He explained that the company wants to avoid conflicts, especially on the road. “Ayaw namin na may kaaway sa daan. Siyempre nandiyan kami sa daan palagi. So, ‘yun ang advice ko sa legal team natin na huwag na lang kasi mas lalo lang na magkaroon tayo ng kaaway,” he said. He emphasized that their priority now is to resolve the situation and help their drivers return to work.
The video, uploaded by Carbonel, showed at least six buses speeding and overtaking one another along the Diadi-Cordon Road in Nueva Vizcaya. The footage was captioned, “Ginawang race track ng mga hari ng daan ang Diadi – Cordon road.” While some viewers claimed the video may have been sped up, many believed the drivers’ behavior was reckless and dangerous.
Initially, GV Florida threatened legal action against Carbonel, but the DOTr responded by offering him protection and legal support, emphasizing that whistleblowers play a vital role in promoting road safety.
In response to the backlash, GV Florida issued a public apology, stating that the viral video does not reflect the company’s values and that they are taking the matter seriously. The company assured the public that passenger safety is their top priority and that the issue is being addressed internally.
Despite the apology, the DOTr proceeded with the suspension of 15 buses. A formal LTFRB hearing is scheduled, and all involved drivers are required to undergo drug testing as part of the ongoing investigation.