MANILA, Philippines —The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered the impounding of a taxi unit and the filing of criminal charges against the driver and operator accused of overcharging a South Korean K-pop artist in Cebu.
LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said the agency was` drafting a new policy that would allow the immediate filing of criminal cases and impounding of taxis involved in overcharging incidents, following a string of complaints from commuters.
The case involving the viral complaint of TXT member Soobin will serve as the test case for the proposed policy, Mendoza said.
The incident, which occurred during the artist’s visit to Cebu last month, drew widespread attention after a video showed the taxi driver allegedly charging higher fares than agreed. The initial fare of P350 reportedly increased to P500, with the driver later insisting on a P1,000 payment, citing the use of “special fuel.”
The video quickly gained traction online, drawing millions of views and prompting criticism over the treatment of foreign visitors. Authorities said the case also led to the discovery of similar complaints involving other international performers and foreign passengers.
Mendoza said he has directed the LTFRB Regional Office in Central Visayas to identify the driver and operator involved and locate the taxi unit for immediate impoundment.
“We will file criminal charges for violations of public service laws and estafa,” he said, adding that administrative sanctions will also be pursued, including the possible revocation of the operator’s franchise.
The LTFRB will also coordinate with the Land Transportation Office for the revocation of the driver’s license, Mendoza added.
The taxi unit will remain impounded pending the outcome of the case.
He stressed that combining criminal prosecution with administrative penalties would become the new standard in dealing with erring taxi drivers.
“Enough is enough,” Mendoza said, noting that such incidents damage the country’s image and undermine efforts to promote safe and reliable public transportation.
