Lower bus fares OK'd in Central Visayas

MANILA, Philippines - Fare rates in Metro Manila may be increasing, but in Central Visayas, it is a different case.

Lower fares for buses were approved yesterday by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in Region 7.

In a resolution, the board granted a petition seeking a reduction in the basic fare for buses and mini buses from P8.50 to P6, covering the first five kilometers.

The rate for every succeeding kilometer was also lowered from P1.40 to P1.20.

The minimum fare of buses in Central Visayas will now be lower than the basic fare charged by jeepneys and buses in Metro Manila of P8 and P10, respectively.

LTFRB Chairman Nelson Laluces and board members Manuel Iway and Samuel Julius Garcia unanimously approved the resolution.

Amid the continuing increase in oil pump prices, the LTFRB board said it appreciates the efforts of Cebu province and its bus operators “to alleviate the plight of commuters.”

“It was approved because any reduction will benefit the riding public,” Iway told The STAR.

Those who filed the petition were Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, the Cebu Provincial Bus Operators’ Association, and the United Mini Bus Operators’ Association.