The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) confirmed on Wednesday that there will be a provisional fare increase in public utility jeepneys (PUJs) by the year-end.

In a press conference, LTFRB Chief Teofilo 'Jojo' Guadiz said while they understand the plight of millions of PUJ operators and drivers, they are taking into consideration the effect of the fare hike in the economy.

“Kapag binigay namin yung hinihingi nilang fare hike, it would not save the economy at yung inflation na sobra-sobra yung pagtaas. Yung pamilya rin ng mga tsuper ang maghihirap kapag tumaas ang presyo ng bilihin,” he said.

“We really consider the fare hike. However, give us a little time to determine how much and when will be the appropriate time to impose the fare hike," Guadiz added.

In an ambush interview after the press conference, the LTFRB Chief said they would still need to consult the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) about the proposed provisional fare hike.

"But definitely, there will be a provisional increase. Ang issue lang ay how much and when," he added.

Earlier, the LTFRB announced that it would hear the petition filed by several transport groups that prayed for a P5 increase in the minimum fare, including a provisional adjustment of P1 on September 26.