Authorities nab 'habal-habal' riders at NAIA

Several habal-habal or informal motorcycles for hire were among those recently apprehended in operations targeting illegal transport practices at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

According to the Philippine National Police – Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) on Tuesday, eight habal-habal units were flagged during operations conducted from 27 to 28 June. Also apprehended were two taxis involved in fare overcharging and illegal fare contracting.

Unlike app-based motorcycle ride-hailing services, habal-habal operators typically rely on informal, negotiated fare systems and do not use meters or digital booking platforms.

The PNP-AVSEGROUP said these practices have been ongoing for some time.

“Vehicles like habal-habal or motorcycles without a franchise are impounded when caught, same with PUVs [Public Utility Vehicles],” the unit stated.

The operations, conducted by the PNP-AVSEGROUP along with the Land Transportation Office, follow a series of overpricing incidents at NAIA. A recent viral video drew public outrage after a passenger was charged P1,260 for a ride from NAIA Terminal 2 to Terminal 3 — a distance of less than two kilometers.

Since January 2025, authorities have documented multiple cases of overpricing and illegal fare contracting across various airport terminals.