The Manila International Airport Authority has warned air travelers about the unauthorized rate cards being used by colorum taxi drivers and illicit transport providers, especially this holiday season.
“Beware of fake transport rates. The MIAA encourages passengers to immediately report to our hotline and social media accounts when presented with a bogus rate card,” the airport management stated in its public advisory.
MIAA came up with the warning following numerous complaints regarding fake rate cards being used by drivers that overcharge passengers. The drivers reportedly charges passengers with more than a thousand pesos depending on the distance of the trip.
MIAA officials advised the public to be critical and report to them as soon as they encounter an abusive and exploitative airport transport service.
Overcharging of fares and presenting fake rates are considered as grave offenses under the MIAA’s circular on traffic management.
Drivers at fault are penalized P2,000 to P5,000 aside from the confiscation and cancellation of their airport access passes.
Operations of a concessionaire are suspended after accumulating 20 grave violations in a year. A concessionaire’s contract is terminated after 10 more grave violations in the succeeding year.
In 2019, MIAA collected about P2.1 million in additional revenues through apprehensions against erring transport vehicle owners and operators.
The airport authority has accredited transport services ranging from car rentals to metered taxis.
The public may call MIAA Hotline 8877-1111, TEXNAIA (SMS) 0917-839-6242. Joel E. Zurbano