LTFRB summons taxi operator over alleged scam attempt on K-pop idol Soobin

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued a show cause order against a taxi operator over the alleged attempt to scam K-pop idol Choi Soobin in Cebu.

In a statement on Friday, LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said the operator was directed to surrender the taxi's license plate and the driver's license.

"Hindi ito ugali ng Pilipino, ugali ito ng mga walang hiya. At huwag ninyong idadahilan ang kahirapan dito dahil napakaraming kababayan natin na lumalaban ng patas at hindi nanggugulang ng kapwa," he added.

(This is not aligned with the Filipinos' character. These are acts by scoundrels. Don't use poverty as an excuse here because there are so many of our countrymen who abide by rules and do not harm others.)

For Mendoza, this is a serious offense and puts the name of the Philippines in bad light before the international community. 

The taxi driver's actions allegedly violated LTFRB's rules and regulations, as well as the terms and conditions of the operator's Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC).

Based on an initial investigation by LTFRB Central Visayas (Region 7), the taxi unit was cited for overcharging and deliberate non-use of the meter. 

The unit has been placed under a 30-day suspension.

Despite the issuance of the show cause order, the LTFRB said the operator would be given the opportunity to explain in writing why its franchise should not be revoked. 

A hearing has been set for April 21.

Mendoza said the agency was also studying stricter measures such as the automatic filing of criminal cases and impounding of taxi units involved in overcharging incidents.

Soobin, bunny leader of K-Pop boy band Tomorrow x Together (TXT), reportedly boarded the taxi from Mactan-Cebu International Airport while on vacation in the Philippines. — VDV, GMA News