Transport groups seek fare hike

LTFRB to decide within the month

MANILA, Philippines — Several transport groups have urged the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) a P2 increase in the minimum jeepney fare to help drivers and operators cope with rising fuel, spare parts and maintenance costs.

In their petitions, the groups seek to make permanent the P1 provisional fare increase granted in October 2023 and to approve another P1 increase to offset the impact of fuel price hikes and vehicle upkeep expenses.

The current minimum fare stands at P13 for traditional jeepneys and P15 for modern jeepneys for the first four kilometers.

If approved, both categories will see an additional P2 increase.

Ramon Guevarra, Jaen Nueva Ecija Transport Corp. head, said the increase is necessary to sustain the roadworthiness of passenger jeepneys amid the continued rise in prices of vehicle parts, batteries and tires.

Melencio Vargas, Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines president, echoed the need for immediate government action.

Both transport leaders noted that no fare adjustment has been approved since October 2023, despite inflation and rising costs of essential goods and services.

They said government assistance through a fare increase for drivers and operators is necessary, noting the inflation and other factors that have driven up commodity prices.

LTFRB chairman Vigor Mendoza II said the agency aims to decide whether to approve or deny the fare hike petitions within the month.

“We want to speed up the process… If the decision is not favorable to them and they want to appeal it, they can go ahead and appeal it,” Mendoza said.