Public warned against patronizing LRT scalpers

Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) Administrator Teddy Cruz has warned LRT commuters against buying tickets from scalpers to avoid being victimized by these unscrupulous persons.

Cruz issued the warning after a scalper was arrested last week by LRTA security personnel in Monumento, Caloocan City for illegally selling LRT tickets, which were also found to be expired.

The scalper, identified as Elena Castro Quiambao of 1117 J. T. Santos, Obrero, Tondo, Manila, was arrested by LRTA security personnel Rogelio Cabrera and Regino Agdon based on the complaint of a passenger, Jim Tote, 38, of Malabon City.

Tote said he bought one single-journey ticket from Quiambao for P15, P3 more than the actual price, at the sidewalk near the LRT station in Monumento. But when he inserted the ticket at the automated machine, it was rejected for being expired.

Tote complained to the two security personnel, who immediately arrested the suspect. Found in her possession were 13 other single-journey cards.

"We will not tolerate the illegal vending of LRT tickets to protect the commuters. Scalpers would be arrested and charged," Cruz said.

He said the LRTA has set up extra ticket counters and satellite booths to service commuters, specially during rush hours.