Manila, Philippines – The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is set to revoke the license of a taxi driver who allegedly overcharged a passenger over PHP 1,200 at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The incident, which quickly gained traction on social media, involved a passenger traveling a short distance from NAIA Terminal 2 to Terminal 3.

According to the DOTr, the passenger was charged PHP 1,260 for the brief trip. This exorbitant fare sparked outrage among commuters and prompted swift action from the transportation agency. The DOTr has stated that the driver's actions violate regulations regarding fair and transparent pricing for taxi services, particularly within the airport premises.

“We take these matters very seriously,” stated a DOTr spokesperson. “The safety and convenience of our commuters are paramount. Exploiting passengers, especially those who are often unfamiliar with the area, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

The DOTr has launched a full investigation into the incident. They are reviewing CCTV footage and gathering testimonies from witnesses to determine the extent of the driver's wrongdoing. The driver will be given an opportunity to present his side of the story, but the DOTr remains firm in its commitment to penalize those who engage in unfair practices.

This incident highlights a recurring problem of overcharging and unscrupulous behavior by some taxi drivers, particularly at airports and tourist destinations. The DOTr has been actively implementing measures to combat this issue, including stricter enforcement of fare regulations, increased monitoring of taxi services, and public awareness campaigns to educate commuters about their rights.

Passengers are advised to always insist on the use of the meter and to take note of the taxi's plate number and driver's information. They can also report any instances of overcharging or other violations to the DOTr through their designated channels. The DOTr encourages commuters to be vigilant and to help maintain a safe and reliable transportation system.

The revocation of the taxi driver's license serves as a strong warning to all taxi operators and drivers to adhere to the rules and regulations and to treat passengers with fairness and respect. The DOTr is committed to ensuring a positive and hassle-free experience for all commuters utilizing public transportation, especially at key transportation hubs like NAIA.

Recent Measures to Combat Taxi Overcharging:

• Increased patrols and monitoring at NAIA and other transport hubs.
• Public awareness campaigns on passenger rights and how to report violations.
• Stricter penalties for drivers found overcharging or engaging in other illegal activities.

The DOTr continues to work towards improving the overall quality of public transportation in the Philippines.