2023/12/29 / Last updated : 2023/12/29 東京支店 blog

BEWARE OF RIP-OFF TAXIS FROM THE PHILIPPINES

In the Philippines, tourism has nearly rebounded after the COVID-19 pandemic, but there’s a concerning rise in fraudulent airport taxi schemes targeting foreigners. The Department of Transportation recently flagged a taxi driver who demanded an excessive fare of 20,000 pesos from a Taiwanese tourist at Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila. This taxi operator’s license was suspended due to the incident.

A video circulated on social media depicting the driver presenting an official-looking fare list bearing the Ministry of Tourism’s logo, claiming exorbitant fees for short distances. Despite negotiation, the tourists were coerced into paying 5,000 pesos (approximately 12,000 yen) for a trip that should have cost much less. Such scams, once prevalent, have now escalated, potentially driven by inflation, with fees resembling airline fares. Some travelers may reluctantly agree to these charges out of fear of missing their flights.

This exploitation not only damages the country’s tourism reputation but also risks deterring future visits. Despite government efforts to promote tourism, such experiences at the airport entrance can severely deter tourists from revisiting.