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Davao City – A taxi driver in Davao City is under fire after allegedly overcharging two passengers a staggering P3,000 for a relatively short trip. The incident, which occurred recently, involved a fare request of nearly P3,000 for a journey of just over 12 kilometers from Davao International Airport to the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT).

According to reports, the two passengers were shocked by the proposed fare, which they deemed significantly higher than the standard rate for that distance. The passengers immediately raised concerns, sparking a debate about taxi fare practices in the city.

“It's outrageous! We were expecting maybe P300-P500 at most, but P3,000? That’s daylight robbery,” one of the passengers shared, wishing to remain anonymous. “We felt pressured to pay, but we knew it wasn't right.”

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in Davao has confirmed receiving a complaint regarding the incident. An investigation is now underway to determine the validity of the passengers' claims and to assess whether the taxi driver violated any regulations pertaining to fare rates and passenger rights.

Possible Violations and Consequences

The LTFRB has strict guidelines regarding taxi fares, including the use of calibrated meters and adherence to established rates. If found guilty of overcharging, the taxi driver could face a range of penalties, including fines, suspension of his driver's license, and even the cancellation of his franchise. The incident also highlights the importance of passengers being aware of their rights and reporting any instances of unfair or excessive charging.

Public Reaction and Calls for Regulation

The news of the alleged overcharging has quickly spread across social media, with many Davao residents expressing outrage and calling for stricter regulation of taxi services in the city. Several online forums are buzzing with discussions about experiences with taxi drivers and suggestions for improving passenger protection.

“This isn’t the first time we’ve heard stories like this,” commented a local resident on Facebook. “The LTFRB needs to be more proactive in monitoring taxi fares and ensuring that drivers are following the rules. We need to protect tourists and locals alike from being taken advantage of.”

Tips for Passengers: How to Avoid Overcharging

• Ensure the meter is running: Before the trip begins, make sure the taxi driver turns on the meter. If they refuse, negotiate a fare upfront.
• Know the approximate fare: Familiarize yourself with the typical fare range for common routes in Davao City.
• Use ride-hailing apps: Consider using ride-hailing apps like Grab, which offer fixed fares and track your journey.
• Report suspicious activity: If you believe you’ve been overcharged, report it to the LTFRB immediately.

The LTFRB encourages passengers who have experienced similar incidents to file formal complaints so they can address the issue effectively and maintain a fair and reliable transportation system in Davao City. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they become available.

This incident serves as a reminder for both taxi drivers and passengers to uphold ethical and legal standards within the transportation sector, fostering a culture of trust and fairness in Davao City.