Jeepney transport groups push for P3 fare increase

A “barker” guides drivers along a street in Manila in April 2024. — File photo by Agence France-Presse

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said on Tuesday that it is studying the petition of three major transport groups for a provisional fare increase covering public utility jeepneys (PUJs).

Pasang Masda, the Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines, and the Alliance of Concerned Transport Operators filed the petition on Monday, the LTFRB said in a press release.

The groups asked the transport body to make permanent the P1 provisional fare hike previously granted in October 2023, in addition to imposing another provisional increase of P2.

READ: P1 jeepney fare hike possible in July – LTFRB

This will bring the base fare of traditional passenger jeepneys to P15 from the current P13, according to the LTFRB.

Multiple filings

It noted that the petition covers multiple filings for fare hikes for PUJs done between August 2023 and March this year, with proposals that ranged from increases in the base fare as well as adjustments per succeeding kilometer.

LTFRB Chair Teofilo Guadiz III said the transport board was “carefully reviewing the request,” stressing that they will consider both commuter welfare and operator viability.

“We are studying the petition in detail to ensure that any fare adjustment is fair, reasonable and based on solid justification,” he said.

“Our goal is to balance the needs of the riding public and the sustainability of public transport operations,” Guadiz added.

The LTFRB chief said the board would also follow due process and conduct public consultations and hearings on the proposed fare increase.

“We will listen to all sides before making a decision. This is part of our mandate to ensure transparent and participatory fare-setting,” he stressed. /cb