11 NAIA taxi drivers held for fare overcharging

MANILA, Philippines — Eleven taxi drivers were apprehended on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for illegally contracting passengers and committing franchise violations.

Authorities conducted the crackdown following a fare overcharging incident involving a taxi driver recently.

The apprehensions were enforced by personnel of the Philippine National Police-Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP) and Land Transportation Office.

The vehicles were flagged for violating provisions under Administrative Order 2014-01, which penalizes unauthorized fare contracting and other transport-related offenses.

First time violator faces a fine of P5,000.

Authorities said the crackdown was prompted by public criticism over a viral social media post showing a cabbie charging a passenger P1,200 for a ride between NAIA Terminals 2 and 3 – a drive of just five kilometers.

“These violations threaten our goal of safe and fair transport for all,” acting AVSEGROUP director Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy said.

“That’s why we are working closely with the LTO, airport authorities and other law enforcement agencies to protect the rights of passengers and restore order in airport transport services,” he said.

The operation was conducted in coordination with the Manila International Airport Authority, New NAIA Infra Corp. and the Office for Transportation Security. — Rudy Santos