LTFRB Warns Taxi Drivers of Franchise Cancellation Over Undas Overcharging

 

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has warned taxi operators and drivers against overcharging, refusing passengers, and displaying disrespectful behavior as millions of Filipinos prepare to travel for Undas.

Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua said violations of existing transportation regulations could result in the suspension or cancellation of a taxi operator's Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), which authorizes the operation of public transportation services.

The agency is stepping up monitoring ahead of All Saints' Day on November 1 and All Souls' Day on November 2, when travelers traditionally head to their home provinces to visit cemeteries and reunite with relatives.

LTFRB to Deploy Mystery Riders and Inspect Terminals

The LTFRB estimates that approximately 1.9 million passengers will pass through bus terminals and other transport hubs in Quezon City, Manila, Pasay, Caloocan, and Muntinlupa during the Undas travel period.

To protect commuters from abusive practices, the agency plans to deploy mystery riders to assess taxi services. It will also conduct unannounced inspections at transportation terminals to check compliance with existing regulations.

Pua emphasized that taxi operators should follow established rules, particularly during peak travel periods when increased passenger demand can expose commuters to unfair fares and poor service.

The LTFRB is also using its social media team to monitor complaints, including viral posts, online tags, messages, and phone calls. Passengers who experience overcharging or other forms of abuse are encouraged to report incidents directly to the agency for appropriate action.

Immigration Bureau Prepares Additional Airport Personnel

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Immigration is restricting the approval of vacation leaves among its personnel to ensure sufficient staffing during the anticipated surge in travelers.

BI spokesperson Anisha Hadji Hassan said additional immigration officers would be deployed to international airports. A rapid response team will remain on standby to provide reinforcements wherever passenger volumes require additional personnel.

The measures are intended to maintain airport operations and help manage the influx of travelers during the holiday period.

NAIA Police Intensify Anti-Theft Operations

At the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group has launched Oplan Kibits to protect passengers and other airport users from theft and illegal activities.

The operation targets suspected thieves and criminal groups involved in salisi, budol-budol, and bundol schemes, along with individuals engaged in kalabit-pahingi, illegal porterage, and fixing.

These measures address risks that can arise in crowded transportation facilities, where travelers carrying luggage, valuables, and cash may become targets of opportunistic criminals.

With millions expected to travel for Undas, authorities are strengthening enforcement across road transportation and airports. Commuters are encouraged to remain vigilant, verify transportation charges, safeguard their belongings, and report suspicious behavior or service violations to the appropriate authorities.