DAVAO CITY – The Davao City government reminded Green GSM Taxis to secure and comply with all necessary permits from government agencies before operating here, stressing that failure to do so renders its current operations illegal.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Dec, 16, the city government stated that Green GSM has yet to obtain a business permit, locational clearance, and building permit for their facilities.

Green GSM also lacks the required recommendations from the City Transport and Traffic Management Board and the Sangguniang Panlungsod for its franchise application with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, as mandated under the Comprehensive Transport and Traffic Code of Davao City.

“Until all required permits are fully obtained and complied with, their operations are considered illegal,” the city government said.

The city government urged the Land Transportation Office and the LTFRB to investigate Green GSM Taxis’ operations following the company’s launching in Davao City on Dec. 15.

The city government expressed support for environmentally cleaner transportation initiatives and emphasized that it will not tolerate companies that disregard local ordinances.

“Companies may choose to bypass regulations elsewhere, but such behavior will not be allowed in Davao City,” the city government said.

Green GSM launched its all-electric taxi service in Davao City on Monday, marking the first expansion outside Metro Manila and part of its long-term plan to support a clean, modern, and well-managed transportation system in key Philippine cities.

The launching was attended by LTFRB-Davao Director Nonito Llanos, representatives from local government departments, and members of the local business community.

Davao City, one of Mindanao’s major urban centers, has been noted for its emphasis on public safety, environmental conservation, and strong community values.

In recent years, Green GSM said the city has experienced steady growth in population and commercial activity, alongside efforts by local authorities to promote cleaner air, responsible urban development, and long-term livability.

The company assured that its operations in Davao are guided by its 5 Green Promises – good experience, good driver, good condition car, reasonable fare, and good environment.

Dao Quy Phi, managing director of the Green GSM Southeast Asia, said the company utilizes all-electric VinFast vehicles, employs full-time professional drivers, offers transparent app-based pricing, and promotes zero tailpipe emissions to create cleaner and quieter streets.

Phi also said the company aims to align its services with Davao’s priorities on order, safety, and environmental responsibility. He described the Davao expansion as a strategic step in Green GSM’s national roadmap for electric mobility.

“Commuters in Davao can book Green GSM taxis through its mobile application, hotline, designated pick-up points, or by street hailing in selected commercial areas,” Phi said, adding that as an introductory offer, new app users receive 25 Green Points, equivalent to P25, which can be used for initial or future rides.

Green GSM began operations in the Philippines in June 2025 and has positioned itself as a provider of reliable, transparent, and environmentally responsible mobility solutions.

Davao City officials reiterated that compliance with local laws and ordinances is a non-negotiable requirement for any transport operator seeking to do business in the city.