MANILA, Aug. 8 -- Abusive taxi drivers and "colorum" vehicle operators at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) should be wary of higher penalties awaiting them.
The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday signed a memorandum of agreement to better address public transportation issues in NAIA, and further monitor compliance of public land transportation vehicles to laws and traffic rules and regulations.
"Penalties will be much higher," said MIAA General Manager Ed Monreal, to let the abusers feel that the two agencies are serious with their campaign.
Taxi drivers who are overcharging their passengers, "colorum" vehicle operators and other violators can expect PHP120,000 to PHP200,000 for every violation, as compared to the previous PHP1,000 violation fee.
Monreal added that bus operators will now be charged PHP1 million for a violation.
The airport GM explained that the increase was due to the huge number of violators they have seen, and because operators could easily get the PHP1,000 violation fee from their passengers.
He also noted that MIAA's joint effort with the LTFRB is also in time, now that the peak season is coming.
For his part, LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III emphasized that his agency needs to take care of the passengers, and reminded them to assert their rights.
Passengers can report directly via the LTFRB numbers or hotlines, or at the MIAA.
Delgra said the LTFRB will have two teams from its Central and NCR offices, who will man the NAIA everyday. The Airport Police Department will help them.
Reminders
Monreal said many violations have already been reported to his office, and many of these were already resolved.
To ensure the smooth flow of MIAA's joint effort with the LTFRB, he reminded passengers not to communicate with solicitors and drivers of unmarked vehicles.
"We don't have control on unmarked vehicles," he noted.
He added that MIAA has also no control over taxis hailed outside the airport's premises. (PNA)
