A TAXI driver was arrested by the Buhangin police for allegedly demanding a fixed fare from a passenger in front of the Davao International Airport at 6:10 p.m. on Monday, April 29.
Captain Hazel Tuazon, the spokesperson of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), only identified him as alias Randy, 39, a resident of Purok 46, Ortega Village, Bangkal.
The taxi driver reportedly demanded a P1,500 fare from the passenger heading to Calinan District without using the meter.
A disagreement erupted between the driver and passenger upon reaching Dela Pena, Cabantian.
The passenger, unhappy with the non-metered fare, flagged down a patrolling police vehicle (Mobile Patrol 2576).
Police apprehended the driver and turned him over to Buhangin Police Station.
A case for grave coercion is being prepared against him.
Recently, Mayor Sebastian Duterte warned taxi drivers to adhere to the city’s fare regulations.
“Take this as a warning. Social media is a powerful platform where complaints can spread widely. I’ve already cautioned these abusive taxi drivers,” Duterte posted on Facebook on April 21.