LTFRB suspends taxi operator, driver for overcharging foreigner

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has suspended for 30 days a taxi operator and the unit driver for charging a foreigner P2,000 for a five-minute trip last week. In a separate move, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) confiscated the driver’s license and impounded the taxi cab. The 30-day suspension stemmed from the foreigner’s vlog that showed the driver making the excessive charge for a short trip from the airport. “The worst part is that the driver also allowed another person to ride on the vehicle,” LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza said. “No passenger, much more foreign tourists whom we should welcome to the country, deserves this kind of treatment.” Mendoza stressed that the act constitutes a gross violation of franchise rules and regulations. Aside from impounding the taxi unit, the LTFRB ordered the operator to surrender the vehicle’s license plate and to subject the driver to a drug test. According to LTO chief Markus Lacanilao, the taxi unit and operator had other violations that include a defective headlight, unregistered motor vehicle and breach of franchise. Mendoza said the driver is set to attend a hearing on Aug. 19 and to explain in writing why he should not be held liable for the glaring violations. He emphasized that the LTFRB will not hesitate to suspend and revoke the franchises of erring taxi operators and drivers, as he urged the public to report abuses promptly. This incident highlights concerns about service quality for foreign tourists visiting the Philippines, particularly regarding the reliability of taxi services. As the Philippine government aims to boost tourism, such incidents could negatively impact its international reputation, necessitating stronger enforcement measures.