Soobin Overcharging Case: LTFRB issues show cause order vs operator, suspends unit
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued a show cause order (SCO) against the operator of the taxi unit involved in the alleged overcharging of K-pop idol Choi Soobin, with the hearing set later this month.
LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said the operator was directed to explain why his franchise should not be revoked over the incident, which gained social media attention.
The hearing of the case has been scheduled on April 21 as part of due process.
READ: Overcharging taxi drivers: LTFRB to file criminal charges
Initial findings identified violations
Based on the initial investigation conducted by the agency’s Central Visayas office (LTFRB-7), authorities found that the taxi driver committed overcharging and deliberately failed to use the taxi meter during the trip.
The taxi unit involved was identified with body number 4351.
READ: Driver in TXT Soobin overcharging case faces charges, impoundment
The alleged violation occurred when Soobin boarded the taxi from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
Taxi unit suspended
As part of the agency’s immediate action, the taxi unit has already been placed under a 30-day suspension.
The operator was also ordered to surrender the license plate of the vehicle, as well as the license of the driver involved.
Mendoza said the viral video documenting the incident serves as a strong evidence in the case.
“This is a serious offense especially that this incident puts the name of our country in bad light in the international community. The viral video itself is already strong evidence,” he said.
Possible franchise revocation
The LTFRB said the operator may face further administrative sanctions, including the possible revocation of his Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), depending on the outcome of the hearing.
Authorities said the violation falls under existing LTFRB rules and regulations governing public utility vehicles.
Policy push continues
Mendoza said the case will not only be addressed administratively but will also reinforce the agency’s push for stricter policies against abusive taxi practices.
He reiterated that the LTFRB is pursuing measures that would allow the automatic filing of criminal charges and the immediate impoundment of taxi units involved in overcharging incidents.
“We are with the taxi drivers who follow the rules and regulations but we will make sure that we will send a strong message on what will happen if they ignore and defy the rules and regulations at the expense of the passengers,” Mendoza said.
Authorities said the move is part of broader efforts to strengthen passenger protection and ensure accountability among public utility vehicle operators.
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