Senator pushes bill on passenger rights

AIRPORT TAXI HUB  Passengers wait for their respective rides at the new ride-hailing taxi hub at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3.  —GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian on Friday urged for the passage of a measure seeking to safeguard the rights of passengers using taxis and tourist car transport services, especially during the holiday season.

In pushing for Senate Bill No. 819, Gatchalian emphasized the need for a law that establishes a clear passenger bill of rights to protect the commuting public from abusive, itinerant and discourteous drivers of vehicles for hire.

“During the holiday rush, incidents of passengers being refused rides or forced to pay additional amounts on top of the the meter bill are common,” Gatchalian said in a statement.

He noted that even tourists are targeted by unscrupulous drivers exploiting the high demand for transport.

Through SB 819, Gatchalian aims to provide legal protection for commuters and promote accountability among drivers and transport operators while ensuring safer and more reliable transportation.

Rights of passengers include being served by a driver who is courteous, properly dressed and groomed, not under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs, and compliant with minimum health protocols. —PNA