THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) has taken swift action against five airport police officers accused of extorting taxi drivers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia).
The officers have been ordered relieved from their posts, pending suspension and subsequent termination proceedings.
This decisive move follows a complaint from a taxi driver who alleged that airport police officers demanded 40 percent of their daily earnings, threatening arrest or barring them from entering Naia if they refused.
The DOTr Secretary, Vince Dizon, emphasized the severe impact of such actions on the tourism industry, highlighting the importance of maintaining a safe and secure environment for both local and international travelers. The incident underscores the need for robust internal investigations and accountability within airport security forces.
The DOTr’s response also includes a directive to the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) to conduct a thorough investigation into the extortion allegations.
This investigation aims to uncover the full extent of the scheme and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. This incident comes on the heels of another recent case involving a taxi driver who was suspended for overcharging a passenger.
The DOTr’s firm stance against both extortion and overcharging demonstrates its commitment to protecting passengers and maintaining the integrity of the transportation system at Naia.
The swift and decisive actions taken by the DOTr send a clear message that such corrupt practices will not be tolerated, and efforts to improve the passenger experience at Naia will continue.
