Jeepney group seeks P5 fare hike

MANILA, Philippines — A group of jeepney operators and drivers yesterday called on the government to approve a P5 increase in fares amid the soaring prices of petroleum products.

The Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations of the Philippines (FEJODAP) decried how jeepney drivers have been “altruistic” in continuing operations despite the increasing prices of goods and fuel, saying it was unfair for drivers to solely bear the costs.

“We are happy to be of service to fellow Filipinos, but we are also asking the government to stop watching us suffer and do something about it immediately,” FEJODAP president Ricardo Rebaño said in an interview on dzBB.

Transport groups have asked the government to increase the minimum fare in public utility vehicles due to difficulties being faced by drivers and operators to sustain their operations.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has received petitions for a fare hike, some of which have been scheduled for hearings.

Rebaño said the LTFRB would be hearing the appeal for a P5 increase in jeepney fares on March 8.

He said FEJODAP is asking for fare adjustments such as charging P1.50 for every kilometer exceeding four kilometers.

“If this is approved, this would be a big help for us. We hope that the government would grant the petition soon so the lives of jeepney drivers and operators would somehow be unburdened,” Rebaño said.