By CALVIN CORDOVA
CEBU CITY – The Land Transportation Office-Central Visayas (LTO-7) warned drivers of public utility vehicles (PUVs) against overcharging especially during the week-long Palarong Pambansa 2024 here.

LTO-7 Regional Director Glen Galario received reports that some Palarong Pambansa delegates were victimized by taxi drivers charging exorbitant fares.
"We received reports that these taxi drivers are taking advantage of this national event happening now in Cebu and overcharging our delegates. We cannot let this happen and rest assured that our personnel are also working very hard in catching these illegal activities," said Galario.
Galario has tasked the LTO-7 Operations Division to conduct random operations and penalize erring PUV drivers.
"We are also encouraging our victims to please file a complaint in our office or with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board so that we can impose sanctions should these drivers be proven guilty of their actions,” Galario said.
Galario reminded passengers to take photos or videos as evidence that will be used in the filing of complaints.
Details such as the taxi’s body number or plate number, date, time, and location of incident are also needed, said Galario.
"Whether it's unmetered or overcharging, that is still considered as a violation of their franchise. We cannot let our delegates be victims of these traps, especially in an annual multi-sport event like this,” Galario said.
Drivers guilty of overcharging will be fined P5,000 for the first offense, P10,000 for the second offense, and P15,000 for the third offense.
Drivers violating franchise conditions shall be imposed a P6,000 fine and a possible revocation of their franchise and driver's license.
"If the public wants to report, they can file their complaint in our office on Nicanor Bacalso Ave. in Cebu City beside the Cebu South Bus Terminal, a walking distance from the Cebu City Sports Complex where most of the games in this year's Palaro is taking place," said Galario.
The public can also contact the LTO-7 hotline through mobile no. 09624460435.