LTO warns ‘isnaberos’ as metro welcomes back vacationers

The Land Transportation Office–National Capital Region (LTO-NCR) will begin implementing “Oplan Isnabero” today to crack down on taxi drivers who refuse or selectively pick passengers, particularly at major transport terminals in Metro Manila.

The move aims to ensure public transport accessibility as thousands of travelers return to the capital after Holy Week, or Semana Santa.

LTO-NCR Regional Director Roque I. Verzosa III reminded taxi drivers to fulfill their duties amid heightened commuter demand and warned that any form of passenger refusal will be met with penalties.

“We will make sure that taxi drivers who refuse passengers will be penalized,” Verzosa said.

Under Joint Administrative Order 2014-01, refusal to transport passengers is punishable by fines ranging from P5,000 to P15,000. The offender’s Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) may also be revoked.

The operation is being carried out under the guidance of LTO chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II and Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon.

“Oplan Isnabero” is part of LTO’s broader “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Oplan Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2025,” with personnel already on full deployment since last week.

Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has recalibrated its deployment in anticipation of a huge wave of returning travelers to Metro Manila after the long Holy Week break.

The NCRPO said these measures aim to ensure that major thoroughfares and transport hubs remain safe and orderly as the metro transitions back to its usual pace.

To sustain full operational readiness, the NCRPO said it continues to conduct inspections and monitor ground deployments. Police presence is maintained across areas of convergence, assistance desks remain functional, visibility patrols have been intensified, and coordination with terminal authorities and local government units is ongoing.

The NCRPO also urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperative, and to report any suspicious activity through established hotlines and help desks stationed across the region.