The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Davao Region (LTFRB-Davao) has confirmed that its central office opened 600 franchise slots for electric taxis (e-taxis) in the region, with nearly all of them now taken up by Green GSM.
596 Units Authorized Under Provisional Authority
Engr. Ronnel Victor N. Panigon, transportation development officer of LTFRB-Davao, said a memorandum circular from the central office authorized the 600 e-taxi units. Green GSM, the operator, has secured a provisional authority for approximately 596 units. "Since they already have the provisional authority issued by the central office, they can now operate," Panigon said during the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps briefing on July 8, 2026, at the Royal Mandaya Hotel.
No Other Applicants for Remaining Slots
Panigon noted that aside from Green GSM, no other operators have applied for the remaining e-taxi franchise slots. Meanwhile, existing taxi operators upgrading to electric vehicles are undergoing a "dropping and substitution" process, which is treated as a vehicle replacement under their existing franchises rather than a new application.
Green GSM's Launch and Regulatory Hurdles
Green GSM launched in Davao in December 2025 but initially had to complete regulatory requirements, including securing a business permit and establishing charging stations. After about six months, the company received clearance to operate. On Jan. 23, 2026, LTFRB-Davao Legal Section Assistant Deanne Aubrey Salcedo reported three oppositions against Green GSM Philippines Taxi's operations in Davao City, filed by local government units, a group of taxi operators, and individual complainants. Two complaints were local, while one went to the LTFRB central office.
Operations and Vehicle Features
Green GSM officially launched on Dec. 15, 2025, with an initial fleet of 500 electric taxis promoted as safe, environmentally friendly, and reliable. The VinFast-manufactured vehicles have a driving range of up to 326 kilometers, driver-assist technology, and modern infotainment systems. Passengers can book via the Green GSM mobile app, hotline, designated pick-up points, or street hailing.
Concerns and Compliance
Before operations, concerns were raised about potential traffic congestion from hundreds of units. Green GSM also faced criticism over alleged non-compliance with Davao City Government requirements, leading to the closure of its depot in Sasa. However, LTFRB-Davao stated the company had been "duly informed" of the requirements needed to operate in the city.
