LTFRB sets up hotline vs abusive cabbies

MANILA, Philippines - The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has come up with a hotline available round the clock for its “Oplan Isnabero” drive against abusive taxi drivers during the holiday season, an official said Monday.

The hotline, 459-2129, will be manned by the Automobile Association of the Philippines.

LTFRB chairman Winston Ginez noted that unlike in the past campaigns against drivers who refuse to convey or impose exorbitant fare rates on passengers, the hotline will be available at all hours every day of the week.

“The information will be e-mailed to us and we will set this for hearing, during which the operator and the driver will be given the chance to explain,” Ginez said.

“Once the call is made, there will already be a date of hearing given to the caller,” he added.

According to Ginez, the complainant will no longer be required to appear during the hearings and file a verified complaint.

He said what they need is just the detailed report of the incident and the vehicle involved.

Ginez said the previous hotline numbers 426-2515 and 0921-4487777 would still be available but would be backed up by the new 24/7 hotline.

Traffic enforcement personnel from the LTFRB, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and Land Transportation Office will be deployed in selected malls and public transport terminals to provide public assistance and immediate action.

First-time offenders will be meted a fine of P2,000. Those caught violating for the second time will be slapped with a fine of P3,000 and a six-month cancellation of the franchise. For the third time, the fine will be P5,000 and the franchise will be cancelled, Ginez said.