"Everyone loves me," says Norberto Toledo Crespo with a calm smile, like someone who has learned to earn affection through actions: he has been driving a taxi on the roads of Cuba for 51 years, with no intention of stopping.
Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila, Minister of Transport, shared on Facebook the story of this man who started out in Holguín during his Military Service, where he completed a driver-mechanic course.
Then came the opportunity that would shape his destiny: the taxi school in San Diego de los Baños, in Pinar del Río.
"Since then, I have been a taxi driver," he states without hesitation, and today he continues working for the Viñales Taxi Agency.
Every day, despite the weariness of the years and the challenges facing the country, Norberto approaches his work with the same philosophy that has always guided him: to treat everyone well.
"As a taxi driver, you have to get along well with the people so that everyone likes you," he asserts.
When a customer comes in feeling anxious or dissatisfied, he knows how to handle it: “I start to make things right. They come in upset, but after a little while, they feel like family.”
Beyond driving, Norberto has been a helping hand, as he has taken sick individuals to the hospital on multiple occasions without charging them a cent. Such acts of solidarity are rare in Cuba, where the economic crisis created by the regime makes these examples scarce.
"Although there are 15 other taxis, I'm the one who takes him. I even give him my number in case he needs me to bring him back," he tells.
For years, he donated his tips to the pediatric hospital in Viñales, through the union of his agency: "Whatever I received in tips, I would give to the children's hospital."
He has traveled all over Cuba with his taxi, but what left the biggest mark on him was stopping on the road to help an elderly man or assist at an accident: "That stays with me forever."
In 2014, the regime recognized him as a Hero of Labor, but they admit that those "recognitions" do not interest them.
For him, more important than the awards is the support of his family: "With my wife and my children, I have always had support."
It is that support that drives him to move forward: “I want to keep filming; everyone can be sure of that.”
Norberto is aware that times have changed: “People are restless, upset, in a bad mood… but that doesn’t mean you can insult them or anything like that.”
And although his vehicle has already covered more than 830,000 kilometers and has been in operation for over a decade, he personally takes care of repairing it with his own hands.
"It's not easy. We need to update the cars, improve the conditions. The service I provide now is not like it used to be," he admits.
A similar story is that of Ricardo Palmero Rodríguez, who is not just any taxi driver. He is a 68-year-old man who, for almost four decades, has dedicated his driving to those who need it the most: dialysis patients in Sancti Spíritus.
Its story, recently revealed by Transport Minister Eduardo Rodríguez Dávila on social media, does not need official embellishments to move you. It speaks for itself.
Amid the current transportation crisis that Cubans are experiencing, alongside the unfortunate situation in the country's hospitals, this man tries to bring some comfort to the patients he transports daily.
Frequently Asked Questions about Norberto Toledo Crespo and Transportation in Cuba
Who is Norberto Toledo Crespo and why is he known in Cuba?
Norberto Toledo Crespo is a Cuban taxi driver who has been working in transportation for over 51 years. He began his career during military service in Holguín and has since worked for the Viñales Taxi Agency. He is known for his friendly demeanor and his willingness to help those in need, even taking sick individuals to the hospital without charging them.
What is the current situation of transportation in Cuba?
The transportation situation in Cuba is critical, characterized by a shortage of fuel, spare parts, and operational vehicles. The public transportation system is facing a collapse, with only 252 operational buses in Havana and many recovery projects still unfulfilled. Despite state efforts, the reality is that many Cubans rely on alternative solutions and individual solidarity for their daily mobility.
How has the economic crisis impacted the healthcare and transportation systems in Cuba?
The economic crisis has significantly worsened the situation of the healthcare and transportation systems in Cuba. The lack of medical resources and the scarcity of transportation affects patients who need regular treatments, such as dialysis. Citizen initiatives have emerged to try to mitigate these deficiencies, but the outlook remains challenging.
What role do taxi drivers play in today's Cuban community?
Taxi drivers in Cuba play a crucial role in the community, especially in times of crisis. They act not only as transporters but also as a supportive presence for those in need. Examples like Norberto Toledo Crespo and Ricardo Palmero Rodríguez demonstrate how these professionals assist the community beyond their work duties, providing free transportation for patients and contributing to local causes.
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