Your Guide to Riding a Taxi in Cebu: Prevent Overcharging

When in Cebu, look out for taxi drivers charging overly high fares. There have been several accounts of foreigners paying more than the metered price for a taxi in Cebu. 

This happens because some drivers will declare a higher price for foreigners instead of following the regular taxi rates approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).  

Other times, they insist on not using the taxi meter, asking instead for a high fixed price, especially if they are traveling to further locations. 

They usually target travelers, exploiting their lack of knowledge of public transport on the island. Despite so many drivers getting called out, the issue still persists. 

So how do you prevent this? First, you need to know your rights and the proper laws regarding taxi cabs and other commuting options. So, let’s discuss how much a taxi in Cebu costs. 

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR A TAXI IN CEBU 

In a previous article, it was mentioned that the flag-down rate starts at Php 40 for white taxis. This has since increased to Php 50 as of January 2025, as mentioned in a CDN Digital article. (2025)

However, the additional Php 13.50 for every succeeding kilometer and Php 2 for every 2 minutes is still intact. 

To put this into perspective, a taxi ride from Fuente Osmeña Circle to Ayala Center Cebu (around three kilometers from each other) should be around Php 100. Take note, however, that the rate will likely go higher if you’re stuck in traffic.

Drivers need to reset their meters when a new passenger gets in, and they should only charge the fare indicated on the meter when they arrive at their destination. The timer is voided the second you arrive at your destination.

This is not the same as a Cebu taxi app like Grab or Maxim, which add a booking fee to the metered price, with the final fare calculated at the dropoff location. 

Additional fees are not fixed, as they take into account the time of day, distance, and road conditions, which could require more effort from the driver. Luckily, these apps provide an estimate of your final fare.

HOW TO AVOID AND REPORT OVERCHARGING 

Now that you know how much a taxi in Cebu generally costs, let’s prevent overcharging from happening. This requires a lot of preparation and awareness on your part.

• Blend in.

This may be difficult if you are obviously of foreign descent, but the point is to give the impression that you frequent the Philippines and are familiar with the issue. Learn the local language and act like you know the place so that they can’t trick you. 

• Travel with a local.

If not, you can befriend a local who is more privy to the situation. They don’t just serve as travel guides, but also companions who will help you avoid local scams.

• Always check the meter.

Overcharging can easily happen because of a faulty taxi meter or a driver manipulating it. Ensure it is reset the second you sit inside, and that its timer and distance meter are not going too fast. 

• Negotiate properly with your driver.

If the driver asks for an extra fee, they should inform you before the ride even starts. You should have the option to refuse if you don’t agree to it. 

This may be the basis for a complaint. If this happens to you, jot down the plate number or the name of the driver, and report it through the number posted inside the car. 

Another CDN Digital article also suggests directly reporting to both the LTFRB and the Land Transportation Office (LTO). LTFRB – 7 Regional Director Eduardo Montealto recommends reporting to both, as they both have different jurisdictions. (2024) 

The LTFRB only summons the drivers, while the LTO gives them the appropriate sanctions. Overcharging penalties include a Php 5,000 fine for the first offense, Php 10,000 for the second, and Php 15,000 for the third.

For formal complaints, contact these numbers or visit their main office in Cebu: 

• LTFRB – 7 

0917 704 6862

Gen. Echavez Street, Lorega, San Miguel, Cebu City

• LTO – 7 District Office 

0918 807 3594

4th Floor, Robinsons Galleria, General Maxilom Avenue

RIDING TAXIS IN THE RAIN

Some taxi drivers will ask for an extra fee when it’s raining. This is especially true if they have to traverse flood-prone areas, which Cebu unfortunately has plenty of. 

It is generally prohibited to do this, but you take into account how difficult this task is for the driver. White taxis are quite close to the ground, so they can get damaged from submerging in the water.  

Again, you have the option to agree to pay an extra fee or consider giving an extra tip for the driver’s troubles. 

However, there should still be transparency between driver and passenger. Your driver should tell you about the additional fees beforehand, so forcing you to pay without prior notice should be reported.