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TXT’s Soobin Overcharged in Cebu: Philippine Authorities Suspend Driver Following Viral Vlog
3 months ago•Ryan Jung
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The Philippine government has suspended a taxi driver and seized his credentials after a travel vlog revealed Tomorrow X Together (TXT) leader Soobin was overcharged during a vacation in Cebu. Local transportation authorities classified the incident as a "serious crime" against the country's international reputation.
Summary
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Incident | Taxi overcharging during Soobin’s personal trip |
| Location | Mactan-Cebu International Airport to accommodation |
| Resolution | Soobin refused the hike and paid the original 500 pesos (~$9 USD) |
| Legal Action | 30-day preventive suspension and surrender of license/plates |
Key Facts
- While vacationing with a friend, Soobin pre-verified a 300-peso (
$5 USD) fare but reluctantly agreed to 500 pesos ($9 USD) at the taxi stand. - After departure, the driver demanded 1,000 pesos (~$18 USD), claiming the vehicle used "expensive gas."
- The interaction was featured in the vlog "Soobin's Very Enjoyable and Very Hard Vacation," uploaded to TXT’s official YouTube channel on April 1, 2026.
- The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) intervened on April 3 following social media backlash.
- Authorities determined the driver failed to use a meter and requested excessive fares, "tarnishing the honor" of the Philippines.
- Global fans expressed apologies to the artist via social media following the broadcast.
Key Terms
- LTFRB: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, the Philippine agency regulating public land transport.
- Mactan-Cebu International Airport: The primary international gateway serving the Cebu region.
Key Quote
"Even before getting out of the taxi, the driver asked for 1,000 pesos again, so I firmly told him I would only pay 500 pesos and left." — Soobin
Next
- Investigation into potential criminal fraud charges against the driver.
- Final decision on permanent license revocation and vehicle seizure.
- Updates on stricter enforcement of taxi metering at Cebu’s international airport.
