Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong urged the public to immediately report taxi drivers who refuse passengers, overcharge, or commit other violations, emphasizing that the city can quickly track down vehicles through its high-tech command center.
The statement follows a fresh wave of social media complaints regarding erring cab drivers.
One anonymous post from July 17 in the Baguio Sumbungan Facebook group detailed an incident where a student was allegedly forced out of a cab during heavy rain after giving the drop-off destination.
“Sinabi ng anak ko kung saan siya ibaba, sabi ng driver ayaw niya daw umikot kaya pinababa na lang siya basta-basta, halos pasigaw at pagalit mo pa sinabi,” the anonymous post read, adding that the student was left soaked and distressed.
Addressing the issue, Magalong encouraged commuters facing similar situations to act immediately rather than just venting online.
“All they have to do is report it to 911,” Magalong said.
To ensure better public awareness, Magalong said the local government plans to roll out an information drive urging residents to utilize emergency services for transit violations.
“Gagawa kami ng post encouraging citizens na nakaka-experience ng ganoon and immediately report it to 911,” Magalong said.
Magalong reassured the public that even partial information is enough for local authorities to take swift action against non-compliant drivers.
“Maski ‘di alam ang plate number, but ‘yung description lang ng sasakyan, kaya na namin i-track agad kasi ‘yung ating command center, pagdating sa car recognition, meron tayong artificial intelligence,” Magalong said, noting that prompt reporting enables faster tracking and appropriate filing of administrative complaints. Rommel Fangot Jr. | UC Intern
