The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in Davao (LTFRB-11) has imposed a ₱5,000 fine on the operator of a taxi whose driver allegedly charged nearly ₱3,000 for a short 12-kilometer trip.
The ride, which took a couple from Davao International Airport to the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal, drew public attention after the fare was discovered to be excessively high. According to GMA News Online, the agency concluded that the operator violated the conditions of their franchise, leading to the penalty.
LTFRB-11 Director Nonito Llanos III said the investigation confirmed a breach on the part of the operator, who is duty-bound to ensure the welfare of passengers. “It is already found out that there is a breach of franchise in their conditions, that’s why the operator is penalized,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office-Davao (LTO-11) is conducting its own probe to determine possible sanctions against the taxi driver involved.
Investigators clarified that the taxi meter had not been tampered with, adding another layer to the ongoing inquiry.
The couple’s daughter, in response to the LTFRB’s decision, said she accepts the outcome and hopes similar incidents will not happen again.
