LTFRB to hear PUV groups on fare increase

MANILA, Philippines — Major transport groups are set to meet with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Monday to discuss the proposed fare hikes for public utility vehicles (PUVs).

“The goal has always been to come up with the best measures that are acceptable not only to the PUV community but also to all the concerned sectors, particularly the commuters, because of the continuous challenge that we face as a result of the situation in the Middle East,” LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said in a statement.

Attending the 9 a.m. hearing ordered by Transportation Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Lopez are jeepney groups PISTON and Manibela, UV express groups Metro Comet Transport Service Cooperative, 997 Sandigan Transport Cooperative and UV Express National Alliance of the Philippines; taxi groups Metro Comet Transport Service Cooperative and Light of Glory Transport Service, Inc., and motorcycle taxi group United Transportation Coalition of the Philippines.

READ: LTFRB warns vs overcharging, stressing no fare hike imposed yet

The transport groups have pending petitions for a fare hike, with the minimum currently at P13. 

Manibela proposed a P2 increase, while PISTON suggested a P10 fare hike.

“The purpose of the hearing is to receive evidence, comments, and the respective positions of all interested parties regarding the pending petition,” Mendoza added.

After the hearing, the LTFRB is set to submit to the DOTr a proposal on the requested fare increase.

Following the overseas conflict that caused fuel prices to rise, a fare hike that was supposed to aid PUV drivers was deferred to support commuters.

However, transport groups argued that drivers affected by the increase in oil prices also require assistance. /apl /atm