Manila: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) apprehended a taxi driver who went viral for overcharging a foreign vlogger, following the issuance of a show-cause order against him. The arrest was part of an operation led by LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao and Law Enforcement Service Director Allan Nobleza. The driver's taxi was impounded, and the operator has been instructed to clarify its liability.
According to Philippines News Agency, the operation also revealed further violations by the taxi operator, including operating with a defective headlight, using an unregistered vehicle, and breaching franchise regulations. These violations will prompt corresponding administrative actions from the LTO. The agency encouraged the public to report similar incidents to ensure quick action and accountability.
The driver's arrest came after a show-cause order from the LTO, following a viral Facebook post on the "MY RIDE PH" page. The post alleged that the driver attempted to charge a foreign passenger PHP2,000 for a ride from the airport to his destination. The LTO's Intelligence and Investigation Division discovered that the taxi's registration had expired and that the driver had outstanding administrative cases for other traffic violations.
As a result, the driver's license has been placed under a 90-day preventive suspension pending the case. Charges include compulsory registration of motor vehicles and overcharging.