The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered a taxi operator to explain allegations of fare overcharging after a viral video exposed a senior citizen passenger who was reportedly charged P750 for a trip from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 to a bus terminal in Buendia, Pasay City.
The LTFRB issued a show cause order against the operator of the taxi bearing license plate NBS-8720, directing it to explain why its Certificate of Public Convenience should not be suspended or revoked over the incident.
The case stemmed from a video recorded by a concerned motorist who became suspicious after noticing a person apparently acting as a conductor inside the taxi, an unusual arrangement for the public utility vehicle.
The motorist followed the cab and later spoke with the elderly passenger, who confirmed paying P750 for the trip. The footage subsequently circulated on social media and caught the attention of LTFRB authorities.
Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. condemned the alleged overcharging and warned that taxi drivers are prohibited from collecting fares beyond government-approved rates, regardless of a passenger’s age.
“This is an unacceptable practice. Senior citizen man o hindi, walang karapatan ang sinumang taxi driver na maningil ng higit sa itinakda ng LTFRB,” Pua said.
He also credited the concerned motorist for documenting the incident, which helped authorities identify the taxi operator and initiate an investigation.
The show cause order, signed by LTFRB Legal Division Officer-in-Charge Ralph Baguio, requires the operator to submit a written explanation ahead of a hearing scheduled for November 24.
Pua warned that failure to respond could result in legal consequences, while reminding public utility vehicle operators that they may also be held accountable for violations committed by their drivers.
The investigation forms part of the LTFRB’s continuing enforcement efforts under the direction of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon to address fare violations and protect commuters from abusive transport practices.