UBE Express, the operator of point-to-point (P2P) buses, has boldly addressed the issue of overpriced airport taxis by sharing its updated Premium Airport Shuttle Bus fares on social media.

On December 21, the company disclosed the fares for its airport bus service, covering all terminals of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). In a direct message to passengers, UBE Express emphasized, “Please take note that YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY 10,000. PESOS. Always ask for a receipt.”

The cost for the NAIA loop across terminals stands at P50 per ride, while P2P airport bus service to Metro Manila destinations ranges from P150 to 200. Commuters heading to Robinsons Sta. Rosa, Laguna, incur the highest fare of P300.

The post garnered significant attention, amassing 1,200 reactions and 448 shares on the platform.

Interestingly, UBE Express subtly called out a reported scheme involving a taxi driver charging foreigners over P10,000 to reach NAIA Terminal 4.

The incident, captured on video and circulating on social media, triggered criticism from Filipinos who deemed such exorbitant rates as equivalent to international plane trips.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) responded by verifying the authenticity of the video.

LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III encouraged commuters who have fallen victim to such scams to report them to the agency.

UBE Express’s proactive stance against overcharging echoes the ongoing efforts to curb exploitative practices at the airport.

The P2P bus system, introduced in March 2015 as a premium express service, caters to specific destinations within Metro Manila and neighboring provinces, justifying the higher fares compared to regular city buses.

Despite this, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is investigating a video showcasing a taxi driver allegedly overcharging passengers at the airport.

The viral video, shared on Facebook, displayed a group of tourists charged a hefty P11,000 taxi fare to reach Terminal 4 of NAIA.

The passengers were presented with a laminated card titled “airport-accredited regular taxi service meter rate,” bearing the Department of Tourism (DOT) logo for credibility. The exorbitant meter rates ranged from P10,300 to P13,500 per passenger.

The incident raised concerns about the prevalence of such scams, prompting LTFRB spokesperson Celine Pialago to emphasize the agency’s commitment to investigating and addressing violations promptly. The public response on social media highlighted the long-standing nature of this issue at the airport.

Seventeen’s Joshua Hong previously brought attention to a similar incident, prompting a swift response from the LTFRB. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has identified the taxi driver seen in the viral video and banned the taxi operator from providing services at the airport.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista assured the public that the LTFRB and Land Transportation Office (LTO) are conducting a manhunt for the taxi driver, emphasizing the commitment to uphold the standards of service and protect passengers’ rights.

While the taxi driver remains at large, the investigation continues, with authorities optimistic about bringing the offender to justice.