LTFRB warns drivers against ‘body shaming’
Charging double is a form of overcharging. Refusing a passenger based on their appearance is discrimination.
(FILE PHOTO)
Daily TribuneCharging double is a form of overcharging. Refusing a passenger based on their appearance is discrimination.
(FILE PHOTO)
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday called on public utility vehicle (PUV) passengers to report drivers and conductors who charge double fares to overweight individuals.
LTFRB spokesperson Atty. Ariel Inton stressed that “there must be no discrimination in public utility vehicles.”
Inton’s statement came in response to a report involving an obese person with a disability (PWD) who was allegedly forced off a jeepney after the driver attempted to charge a double fare, claiming the passenger occupied the space of two people due to their size.
“No matter how obese a passenger is, their fare is for one passenger. Charging double is a form of overcharging. Refusing a passenger based on their appearance is discrimination,” Inton said.
He urged passengers who experience similar situations to “record or document” the incident and file a formal complaint with the LTFRB.
“The LTFRB will penalize those who are found discriminating against passengers based on looks, race or size,” Inton said.