Jeepney operators seek P1 provisional fare hike

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will set a special board meeting to discuss the appeal of jeepney operators for a P1 provisional fare increase, an official said yesterday.

LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III said the meeting could take place within the week or next week.

Leaders of transport groups sought a provisional increase in jeeney fares during yesterday’s hearing on their petition for a P2 hike in base fare.

They were Efren de Luna of the Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization, Zenaida Maranan of the Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers’ Associations of the Philippines and Liga ng Transport Operations ng Pilipinas president Rolando Marquez.

The LTFRB has been hearing the fare hike petition filed by the jeepney operators in September last year.

Delgra said they would determine if there is a need for a provisional fare increase given the recent spike in fuel prices and the impact of the tax reform law.

If the P1 provisional fare hike is granted, commuters in Metro Manila and nearby provinces will have to pay P9 for the first four kilometers.

De Luna urged the LTFRB to grant their petition, citing higher diesel prices ranging from P44 to P45 per liter.

He added about 30 percent of jeepney commuters are senior citizens, persons with disabilities and students who are entitled to receive 20 percent discount on fares.