Manila Airport Taxi Scam Sparks Outrage; Gov’t Vows Crackdown

Manila Airport Taxi Scam Sparks Outrage; Gov’t Vows Crackdown

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationWeek.com  
June 19, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – A taxi fare scam targeting tourists and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has ignited public outrage, prompting the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to take swift and decisive action.

The scheme involves fraudulent taxi fare charts and dishonest drivers exploiting unsuspecting passengers unfamiliar with the local rates.

It directly contradicts President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s order for fair and affordable transportation.

The outrage stems from the circulation of counterfeit taxi rate cards online, presented as official airport fares.

These bogus charts are being used to justify exorbitant charges, preying on the vulnerability of arriving and unsuspecting travelers.

“We will not tolerate this exploitation,” Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon stressed.

“The government is committed to identifying and prosecuting those responsible for disseminating these fraudulent rates, as well as any taxi operators and drivers caught overcharging passengers,” Dizon said.

“Any DOTr personnel or individuals from related government agencies found complicit in this scheme will face the full force of the law.”

The DOTr is urging the public to exercise caution and recognize that the online taxi rates are fabricated and do not reflect official pricing.

Passengers are strongly advised to:

·        Inquire about the flag-down rate and per-kilometer charges before entering the taxi.

·        Demand that the taxi driver activate the meter.

·        Request a receipt upon completion of the ride.

·        Report any instances of overcharging or suspicious activity to the DOTr or the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

The latest scheme follows a recent report of a metered taxi allegedly charging a passenger a staggering ₱1,200 for a short trip between NAIA Terminals 3 and 2.

Airport operator New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) is actively investigating the incident.

Initial findings showed that the taxi in question was not an accredited transport provider at the NAIA.

Free Shuttle and Verified Ride-Hailing Options

To end the scam and provide secure alternatives, the NNIC has reminded passengers of the free inter-terminal shuttle bus service, which operates every 15 minutes and offers a convenient, safe, and cost-free option for airport terminal transfers.

Furthermore, authorized transport network vehicle services such as Grab and Joyride Super Taxi are allowed to pick up passengers at the NAIA in a designated area at Terminal 3.

For Terminals 1 and 2, passengers are encouraged to use official, accredited transport services readily available at the arrival curbside or book rides through ride-hailing applications.

Metered taxis are only permitted for drop-offs at Terminals 1 and 2, to ensure public access while soliciting or accepting passengers is strictly prohibited.

The NNIC is reviewing CCTV footage to gather more information about the unauthorized pickup and identify the driver involved in the overcharging incident.

The DOTr has directed the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to start a formal investigation into the case.

The NNIC is also exploring additional enforcement measures, including enhanced monitoring of drop-offs, improved curbside surveillance, and closer collaboration with transport authorities.

Passengers are reminded, through on-site announcements and official social media channels, to avoid unauthorized transport services and utilize only accredited providers.

The DOTr and the NNIC are appealing to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to prevent exploitative schemes at the airport and ensure a fair and safe transportation experience for all travelers.