LTFRB cracks down on errant taxi firms

MANILA, Philippines–The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has started to crack down on those who fail to comply with an ID system for taxi drivers in Metro Manila.

On Thursday, LTFRB enforcement teams apprehended 27 taxi drivers still operating without identification cards as required under Memorandum Circular 2014-20, LTFRB Chair Winston Ginez announced in his Twitter account.

Under the circular issued last month, taxi operators were directed to issue by Jan. 15 5”x8” ID cards to their drivers which should be hung conspicuously inside their vehicles. The ID cards should display the taxi company’s name, its contact information, the driver’s name, his ID number, driver’s license number and government hotlines.

The ID requirement is the first step in the LTFRB’s efforts to make a centralized government database of taxi drivers in the metropolis. The program was launched following a spate of taxi-related crimes during the holiday season.

Under the circular, operators were also asked to submit to the LTFRB a list of their drivers for the agency’s database. Taxi operators found not complying with any of the provisions of the memorandum circular would face a fine of P5,000 per violation.