Commuters in Puerto Princesa are raising concerns over alleged overpricing by tricycle drivers, taking to social media to call for stricter enforcement of fare regulations and clearer policies from local officials.
In a widely shared “Open Letter to Local Officials” posted on Reddit, residents expressed frustration over what they described as the absence of a fixed and consistently enforced fare system, highlighting the gap between official tariffs and actual practice.
The post said some drivers ignore the approved fare matrix and instead ask passengers, “Magkano ibibigay mo?” (“How much will you give?”), even for short trips.
“Wala pa nga 2 km, 18 pesos agad??? E 16 lang sa taripa. Wala na, masasanay na niyan sila mag ‘magkano ibibigay mo’ imbes na ‘eto ang fare matrix namin’ pag di nareklamo,” said Reddit user Fudgeebarxx, recounting an alleged overcharging incident.
Other users echoed similar sentiments.
From Drugman Drughouse on Valencia Street to Roxas Street, tricycle drivers refuse to convey passengers if they won’t pay for two passengers at ₱20 per head.
“Kaya nga mas okay na lang kumuha ng private vehicle e… Ang hirap kasi sa mga tatay/nanay na driver ngayon masyadong abusado,” said user knowngent.
“Tumaas nga lahat pero ang sweldo naman hindi. Sana talaga ma-sample-an yang mga lintek na drivers na mapang-abuso,” added LemonSquareCheesec8.
The online discussion also criticized local officials, including Vice Mayor Jimbo Maristela and Councilor Jie Lao, with some users alleging that authorities have not done enough to address commuter concerns.
Residents pointed to gaps in the system, including the lack of a dedicated hotline for reporting overcharging, unclear procedures for filing complaints, and limited public access to updated fare matrices.
“Amplify niyo lang ito para makita ng mga local news at lalong lumaki hanggang makarating sa City Hall,” said Reddit user thefast_thecurious16, urging wider attention to the issue.
Commuters said that while the city government has extended financial assistance and incentives to drivers, these have yet to translate into fair and consistent fares for passengers.
Palawan News sought comments from the Puerto Princesa City Transport Federation-TODA, on measures to address the complaints but has yet to receive a response.
Residents said they will continue raising the issue publicly while calling for a transport system that ensures fairness for both drivers and commuters.
