Miriam eyes measures vs ‘ipit-taxi’ cabbies

MANILA, Philippines – Alarmed by persistent reports of commuters falling victim to “ipit-taxi” robbers, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago is pushing for regulatory or identification measures for taxi drivers across the country.

Santiago noted that the activities of ipit-taxi robbers usually involve the taxi drivers as accomplices, which leaves unsuspecting commuters helpless. The term refers to a scheme wherein two robbers, armed with knives or guns, board a taxi carrying a lone passenger at the backseat and trap them in the middle.

She cited a recent case involving “Anna,” who was stabbed by robbers and left for dead in the taxi, which they boarded along Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City.

“News of similar robberies in taxi cabs have been plaguing the nation as of late. There is a need to create an efficient mechanism to prevent, if not eradicate, robberies of a similar nature that threaten the safety of the commuting public,” Santiago said.

The senator has filed a resolution calling for an inquiry to determine the regulatory and identification measures that could be crafted for taxi drivers across the country.

“It is imperative that a system to identify cab drivers be mandated by Congress and stricter regulations be put in place to ensure that they will not take part in similar robberies and crimes,” she said.

Passengers’ rights

Santiago previously filed a bill calling for the establishment of taxi passengers’ bill of rights, which would help ensure the commuters are protected while penalizing taxi drivers and operators who violate those rights.

“There are too many disturbing reports of taxi drivers and operators who take advantage of their passengers, from mere discomfort or discourtesy to robbery and physical harm. It’s high time this transport sector shapes up,” she said.

Under Senate Bill 1206, taxi passengers would have a set of rights including being assured that the vehicle is clean, smoke-free, and in good repair; the driver is courteous and helpful; and the right to direct the route, or expect from the driver to use the most economical route.

The bill also requires taxi drivers to prominently display their identification card in the vehicle.

First-time violators would be fined a maximum P2,000, P5,000 for their second offense, and P10,000 for third and succeeding violations as well as the suspension of driver’s license for one week.

The taxi passengers’ bill of rights is required to be displayed prominently inside the vehicle will also be required. Drivers who fail to do this would face a fine of up to P3,000.

“We need to enact a law to protect our commuting public, citizens and tourists alike from predatory practices of some taxi drivers and operators raise the service standards. By doing so, we would establish better public perception to the taxi service industry in general,” Santiago said.