(FILE) Plastic dividers are placed inside a jeepney to maintain physical distancing as part of the new normal in commuting in a few jeepneys authorized by the LTFRB to service specific routes. PHOTO BY WILLIE LOMIBAO
MANILA, Philippines — Petitions to the increase the fares in public utility jeepneys will be heard on March 8, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said Saturday.
Transport groups are pushing for an increase of P1 in the minimum fare for jeepneys which is now at P9.
LTFRB Executive Director Maria Kristina Cassion said transport groups have filed petitions for a fare hike amid the increase in fuel prices.
“Sinasabi nga po natin sa mga proponent, sa mga petitioners po natin na patuloy naman nating inaaral,” she said during the Laging Handa public briefing.
(We told proponents, petitioners that we are studying it.)
“In fact, mayroon kasing petition na natanggap natin from Pasang Masda at saka 1-Utak at saka Altodap at ito ay naka-set for hearing ngayong March 8 po,” she went on.
(In fact, we received petitions from Pasang Masda, 1-Utak, and Altodap and it is set for hearing this March 8.)
As of February 21, the net cumulative hike in domestic fuel costs has reached P10.85 per liter for diesel, P8.75 for gasoline, and P9.55 for kerosene.
As Russia invades Ukraine, oil prices soared to $100 per barrel.
Russia accounts for 12 percent of global oil and 24 percent of natural gas production.