MANILA, Philippines — Authorities apprehended two suspected fixers at Batangas Port Terminal on Tuesday, for allegedly coercing motorists and passengers into paying unauthorized fees for expedited boarding services.

The suspects were caught in an entrapment operation according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), following social media reports of extortion along the Philippine Ports Authority Access Road.

The duo allegedly targeted travelers navigating the holiday rush, promising faster vehicle boarding in exchange for P1,000 payments. 

Authorities said that a motorcycle rider reported being approached by the suspects along Diversion Road while en route from Sto. Tomas, Batangas, to San Juan, Victoria, Mindoro. 

Two of his companions were also offered similar deals.

Authorities arrived at the scene around 9:00 PM, catching the suspects in the act. Pieces of evidence, including mobile phones, marked money, and boodle money, were confiscated and is now part of the ongoing investigation.

The suspects are currently under the custody of PNP-MARIG and face charges under Article 318 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC) for other deceit. Authorities are also probing the potential involvement of additional accomplices.

The PCG and PNP-MARIG urge passengers to report suspicious activities and avoid engaging with unauthorized individuals to prevent falling victim to similar schemes.