Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon on Monday addressed the viral incident of a taxi driver overcharging a passenger for a short trip between Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminals 3 and 2.

Speaking at a Department of Transportation (DOTr) press conference, Dizon said such cases are nothing new.

“We’ve known for a long time that this happens. We all know it — especially when it rains or traffic builds up, taxi drivers refuse to turn on their meters,” Dizon said, referring to the common practice of charging flat rates rather than metered fares.

“They’ll ask for P1,000, P500. You know, there are times — like what I’ve experienced myself — when we just let it go because we just want to get a ride. It’s raining, we don’t want the hassle, so we agree to the deal,” he added.

Following an investigation, Dizon revealed that the vehicle in question was operated by Taxi Hub Transport. It was subsequently impounded after authorities discovered that it was a colorum unit — its provisional authority had already expired

“I’ll say it again and again to all drivers, operators — taxi, PUV, buses, Angkas, Joyride, Move It — you have a franchise to provide service, but with that comes responsibility. And if you violate the law, there will be consequences,” Dizon warned.

He emphasized that the DOTr will continue cracking down on “colorum” or illegal public transport operations and will strictly implement regulations to protect commuters.