Ben Madilynn
THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reminded public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators that imposing “double fares” on passengers based on physical appearance, size, or weight is illegal.
In a statement, LTFRB chairperson Attorney Teofilo Guadiz III issued a stern warning after receiving several complaints that overweight or plus-size passengers are being charged fares exceeding the standard rate.
He condemned such practice, which he said is both discriminatory and unlawful.
“Regardless of a passenger’s size, the fare covers one person. This practice of overcharging is not only unlawful — it is discriminatory and fundamentally unjust,” said Guadiz.
“Any form of fare manipulation based on personal characteristics, including body size, is a clear violation of LTFRB regulations and human rights principles,” he added.
The LTFRB chief reminded that public transportation must be accessible and respectful to all, noting that discrimination has no place in the country’s transport system.
Guadiz said violators may face penalties including fines, suspension of operations, or revocation of their franchises, in accordance with existing laws and LTFRB guidelines.
He urged passengers who experience or witness any form of overcharging or discrimination to immediately report incidents through the LTFRB hotline 1342, its official social media pages, or by email at complaints@ltfrb.gov.ph. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)
Source: No double fare for plus-size passengers
