Manila: Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has issued a stern warning to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who overcharge their customers, stating they could face administrative penalties and criminal charges. The announcement highlights the government's commitment to protecting passengers from exploitative practices.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lopez emphasized that both local and foreign tourists who fall victim to such practices will see their cases taken seriously by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO). He further noted that the franchises of transport operators involved in overcharging could be suspended or canceled.

Lopez has also directed the LTFRB to initiate criminal proceedings against any PUV driver, conductor, or operator found guilty of such misconduct. The issue gained attention following a report by a Taiwanese news program, TVBN, on March 4, where Taiwanese tourists were charged PHP9,600 instead of the typical PHP500 for a ride from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to their destination in Manila. The tourists' complaint to the local police department was met with the response that no action could be taken.

The actions by Lopez and the transport authorities underscore a broader initiative to ensure fair treatment of passengers and to maintain the integrity of the public transport system in the Philippines.