Grab Philippines has issued a statement after Filipino fans of K-pop superstars BTS complained that some riders posted negative comments about the group regarding the much-awaited start of BTS Meal in the country on June 18.
The BTS Meal will be served in McDonald’s stores in the Philippines and this can be ordered through different channels including Grab Food. It will consist of a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, medium World Famous Fries, medium Coca-Cola, and Sweet Chili and Cajun sauces inspired by popular recipes from McDonald’s South Korea.
However, Filipino BTS ARMYs have found out that a Facebook page that Grab riders put up contained homophobic slurs directed at BTS.
ARMY Cavite Fanbase sent a letter to Grab Food Philippines about the issue, saying, “Unfortunately, some Grab Drivers have put 'BTS BIOT’ on a Grab Facebook page, indicating that they will be taking the day off during the release of the aforementioned BTS Meal.”
“We do not mind if they take their well-deserved rest but given the context of their reason, we believe that their actions are rooted in bigotry and hate. There are also reports where few ARMYs witnessed how some drivers are shouting the phrase in front of McDonald's,” the letter added.
The fans said, “We are concerned that the Grab Drivers' lack of professionalism might jeopardize their safety and the quality of the meals. We condemn homophobia and racism in the BTS ARMY, BTS taught us to love ourselves and others. We hope Grab PH responds to the clamor of their dissatisfied customers by taking action.”
In response, Grab Philippines stated that “inclusivity is one of Grab's core values, and we have a zero-tolerance policy for inexcusable behaviors.”
“We have immediately suspended the delivery-partners in question and will continue to work hard to maintain an inclusive and diverse platform. Our delivery-partners continue to provide significant services for our kababayans during these trying times,” it said.
Grab added, “We hope that our consumers will not let the actions of a few select individuals affect the livelihoods of the many delivery-partners who rely on the Grab platform to support their families.”