Last week, some Bangkok taxi drivers caused a scandal by allegedly refusing to serve Japanese passengers in retaliation to a Japanese visitor’s viral Facebook complaint. On the other hand, there’s Suwannachat “Diao” Phromchat, a 38-year-old taxi driver whose car bears a bumper sticker that translates to, “Let it go, Never Mind, Thank You, Sorry.” Not only does Diao promise he’ll never say no to a passenger’s request, he also offers free rides to the disabled.
We heard you offer free services to the handicapped. Why?
I once picked up a handicapped passenger and helped him to get into the car. After that, I was shocked that he started crying, saying some taxi drivers weren’t willing to give him a hand at all. I just wanted to help.
 
What do you think about taxi drivers who refuse to go to particular areas?
They obviously lack a service mind. I think cab drivers should treat every passenger like members of their family. And when it comes to foreigners, first impressions are very important in order to encourage them to revisit our country. We need to be good representatives of the country.
 
Does providing free services mean you earn less?
Many people ask me this question. They’re curious about why I help people for free. I’m not rich, but I don’t need to talk about money all the time. I’ve always said that if I earn less money today, I’ll make up for it tomorrow. Whenever I give a hand to the disabled, they always bless me. And I believe that’ll make my life better.
 
Who were some of your most memorable passengers?
There have been people who take pictures of my car and post it on social networks. Also, some people gave me dharma books, which I found impressive. However, there are also some jerks who make an appointment with me to pick them up. But when I arrive, they just never appear. That annoys me sometimes.
 
What did you do before becoming a taxi driver?
I worked as a construction worker when I was 16. It was a tad dull having to repeat the same routine every day. I wanted a job that provided me freedom, and being a taxi driver was that.
 
What’s your daily routine?
Normally I wake up around 9-10am. I drive all day long until around 11pm most days. Sometimes I wait for customers who need a ride until 2am.
 
Any future plans?
I plan to buy a new car. I want to continue as a taxi driver. Helping others with their day really makes my day.
 
 
Reach him at 087-331-5421.

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