LTO Suspends Drivers Overcharging at Ninoy Aquino Airport
MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has suspended the licenses of 10 taxi and Transportation Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) drivers caught overcharging and soliciting passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) in Pasay City.
Authorities said the suspension follows a surprise operation conducted on June 25, where these drivers were caught violating fare regulations. “We already informed these drivers of the suspension of their licenses for 90 days through the show cause orders issued to them. In other words, they don’t have work during that period, and this is because of taking advantage of our commuters,” LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza said in Filipino.
Strict Action Against Overcharging Drivers
The LTO emphasized that all apprehended drivers face charges for being improper persons to operate a motor vehicle, a violation that can lead to license revocation. This crackdown was prompted by several viral incidents of overcharging at Naia terminals.
Specifically, one taxi driver was reported to have charged P1,300 for a short trip from Terminal 2 to Terminal 3, while another demanded over P5,000 from a passenger traveling from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2.
Investigation Extends to Motorcycle Taxi Overcharges
Moreover, the LTO is investigating a motorcycle taxi driver who allegedly charged P2,000 for a ride from Naia to Cainta, Rizal. These cases have prompted the deployment of LTO enforcers across all three Naia terminals to monitor and prevent such abuses.
Protecting Commuters and Tourists from Abuse
Mendoza highlighted the negative impact of overcharging on the country’s image, especially among foreign tourists. “We will not let this kind of abuse pass. If this can be done to our constituents, what more to our foreign tourists? This can be bad for the image of our country,” he stated.
The LTO continues to enforce strict measures against drivers who exploit passengers, underscoring its commitment to safeguard commuters and uphold fair transport practices at the airport.
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