How to Avoid Taxi Scams in Philippines: Lessons from TXT Soobin’s Cebu Trip

Imagine landing in Cebu for a much-needed holiday, checking your map, and seeing that your ride should only cost about ₱300. You hop into a taxi, but halfway through the trip, the driver starts complaining about high fuel costs and demands ₱1,000 instead. This is exactly what happened to Choi Soo-bin, a member of the K-pop group TXT, and it's a frustration many of us know all too well.

The Cebu taxi overcharging story that's everywhere right now

^{Image credit: TXT | YouTube}

The incident went viral after Soobin shared a vlog of his Cebu trip on TXT’s official YouTube channel. After landing at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, Soobin and a friend took a taxi to their hotel. While they expected to pay around ₱300, the driver initially asked for ₱500 before trying to hike the price up to ₱1,000 mid-ride.

After a tense back-and-forth, the K-pop star ended up paying ₱500. While it was less than the ₱1,000 demand, it was still nearly double the standard rate. The video, titled "Soobin’s super fun and super tiring holiday," drew thousands of comments from Filipinos who felt embarrassed and quickly apologised to the singer for the driver's behaviour.

Also read: Cheapest Way to Commute in 2026: 5 Hacks to Beat Rising Fuel Costs in PH

Why the driver got suspended and what authorities are doing

^{Image credit: TXT | YouTube}

The Department of Transportation’s Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) took swift action once the footage gained traction. The board ordered the driver to surrender his licence plate and issued a 30-day suspension. They noted that the driver deliberately ignored the meter and overcharged his passengers, which tarnishes the country's reputation.

The driver may still face criminal charges or have his vehicle seized. Because of this high-profile case, Philippine National Police chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jnr has ordered a nationwide crackdown on overcharging, particularly at airports and transport hubs.

Also read: Metro Manila Implements 10 P.M. Curfew for Minors, Bans Shirtless Roaming, Late Night Videokes

How to not get ripped off on your next commute

If a global star can get targeted, it can happen to any of us. Whether you're heading to the airport or just moving around the city, here is how you can protect your wallet:

• Always insist on the meter. Regular taxis have a ₱45 flag-down rate plus ₱13.50 per kilometre. If a driver refuses to turn it on or asks for a "fixed price" because of traffic, it is better to find another ride.

• Use ride-hailing apps for peace of mind. Apps like Grab show you the fare before you book, so there are no surprises. For solo trips, motorcycle apps like Angkas, MoveIt, or Joyride are great for beating traffic at a set price.

• Keep track of standard fares. Traditional jeepneys start at ₱13 and modern ones at ₱15. Tricycles usually start at ₱16. Knowing these basics helps you spot a "tourist price" immediately.

• Carry small bills. It is a common trick for drivers to say they have no change for a ₱500 or ₱1,000 bill. Keep ₱20 and ₱50 notes handy so you can pay the exact amount.

• Ask a neutral third party. If you aren't sure what a ride should cost, ask a security guard or hotel staff before you approach a driver.

By staying informed about the latest transport rates and using apps that offer transparent pricing, you can avoid the "scam tax" and ensure your money goes toward things you actually enjoy. Being firm about using the meter doesn't just save you money, it also helps keep the local transport industry honest for everyone.