HONEST TAXI DRIVER RETURNS P2.4-M LEFT BEHIND BY PASSENGER

LAND Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman  Teofilo Guadiz III on Wednesday lauded the honesty and integrity of a taxi driver from Iloilo who returned a bag containing P2.4 million left behind by a passenger in his cab.

Guadez hailed cabbie Anthony Barredo Aguirre for the good deed.

“Mr. Aguirre’s exemplary act of honesty is proof that there are still good and honorable Filipinos who prioritize integrity over personal gain.  He is a model for everyone in the transport sector,”  the LTFRB chief said.

Aguirre, a resident of Bgy. Amparo in Pavia, Iloilo, had already arrived home when he received a call from his operator asking if a passenger had left a bag in his taxi. 

Upon checking the passenger side of the vehicle, Aguirre found the bag under the seat.

Instead of keeping the money, Aguirre brought the bag to the local police station, ensuring it would be returned to its rightful owner.

“Although such an amount could have been a great help in their lives, he still chose to do what is right. His actions inspire trust and respect for the transport industry,” Guadiz said.

The LTFRB chair encouraged other utility vehicle drivers to follow Aguirre’s example.

The incident was first reported on GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas, where Aguirre recounted the experience.

 “Honesty like this deserves recognition. We hope Mr. Aguirre’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of doing what is right, even when no one is watching,” Guadiz said.

“The LTFRB salutes Aguirre for his honesty in returning the substantial amount of money to its owner,” he added.