LTFRB raises drivers’ incentives

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has increased cash incentives it will pay out to public utility drivers (PUV) under its service contracting program.

Under an LTFRB memorandum circular, the per kilometer incentive for traditional and modernized jeepneys and public utility buses will be almost doubled.

The memorandum signed on April 16 increased the per kilometer incentive to P27 for traditional and modernized jeepneys and P45.50 for public utility buses from the previous rate of P11 and P23.10 respectively.

The LTFRB said the reduced passenger capacity to follow social distancing protocols has significantly affected the take-home pay of drivers and operators.

It cited the necessity to increase financial assistance to workers in the public sector affected by the pandemic.

Over 35,000 PUV drivers have registered with the service contracting program, with over 25,000 completing their orientation process.

Under the program, around 60,000 will receive subsidies based on kilometers traveled by their vehicles.

Around P5 billion was allotted for the program to help cushion the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the transport sector.