MANILA, Philippines - Since October 2012, Radyo5’s Wanted sa Radyo host Raffy Tulfo has lauded honest taxi and AUV drivers through the radio program’s Gawad Katapatan awards. He said that the awards highlight the positive traits of hardworking drivers who ply Metro Manila’s streets by transporting passengers safely and responsibly.
“We set out to honor 10 honest people based on the quality of their service to their customers.We give them a medalya ng katapatan, a certificate of honesty, gift pack from our sponsors and, of course, I mention them in my tabloid columns which they often frame,†Raffy said.
Be it a cellphone, laptop or money, the honest taxi drivers find their way to the Radyo5 station in Novaliches or the Aksyon Center along Mother Ignacia Ave. Once there, they immediately look for Tulfo or his co-host Niña Taduran to report and return the items.
He added, “The most valuable item returned to us so far was a wallet containing $2,000 this year which was left behind by an OFW. He was very thankful when the money was returned to him.â€
A bonus to the radio program’s efforts came in a phone call from TV5 president and CEO himself, lawyer Ray Espinosa. In that call, the Kapatid Network head offered cash to those who will be awarded in the monthly Gawad Katapatan Awards.
“From the first awarding, he (Espinosa) gave the cash bonus for the awardees from his own pocket. He was very happy because there are so many good and honest taxi drivers. I’m thankful for his support in this endeavor of the show,†Raffy said.
The tough-talking host hopes more honest citizens continue this act of goodness even if there was no reward.
“Most of the taxi drivers who come to us see Wanted sa Radyo as a program that they can turn to when seeking assistance. We are glad that the show has established our credibility as journalists and public servants. I believe these drivers are really honest and we are proud to have shared their good traits with our listeners,†Raffy ended.