Taxi drivers warned vs overcharging, other violations amid Undas rush

MANILA, Philippines—The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Saturday warned taxi operators and drivers against overcharging, refusing passengers and other violations as millions of travelers are expected in transport terminals for the Undas break.

Acting LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Greg Pua Jr. said the agency is issuing an early warning to remind taxi operators and drivers to follow fare regulations and provide proper service to commuters.

“This early, we are giving a fair warning to all taxi operators to behave and stick to the rules and regulations of the authority to operate issued to them,” Pua said.

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Violations involving fare overcharging, refusing passengers and disrespectful behavior could result in the suspension or cancellation of an operator’s Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), as well as other penalties, he added.

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Passenger surge

The warning comes as transport terminals prepare for an influx of travelers heading to their home provinces for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

The Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) expects around 1.9 million passengers from Oct. 25 to Nov. 4, while the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) projects 1.93 million travelers nationwide from Oct. 27 to Nov. 5 for the Undas break.

Pua said more passengers are also expected at provincial bus terminals in Quezon City, Manila, Pasay City, Caloocan City and Muntinlupa.

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Stricter monitoring

To ensure compliance, Pua directed LTFRB enforcers to conduct random and surprise inspections, including the possible use of “mystery riders” to check drivers’ compliance with regulations.

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The LTFRB’s social media team will also monitor viral posts and complaints submitted through social media tags, messages and phone calls.

“The LTFRB is in full force when it comes to monitoring. This should serve as a strong message to both operators and drivers that we are watching you, and that you know what would happen if we catch you,” Pua said.

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He assured commuters that the agency would act promptly on complaints. /gsg