The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is considering the petition for a minimum fare hike for public utility jeepneys (PUJ).
Transport groups such as the Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas and Pasang Masda have pushed for a raised fare of ₱15 from the current minimum of ₱13, due to persistently climbing prices on petroleum products.
Prices have been on an upward trend since the beginning of the year. On Tuesday, an increase of almost ₱3 on pump prices was introduced. In a report by Kyle Bullas, about ₱300 is slashed from drivers’ income daily.
Bullas reported, however, that commuters already find ₱13 too high.
The LTFRB said they are reviewing the petition “thoroughly,” taking into account all pertinent factors such as inflation rates, fuel price trends, and how commuters may be affected.
In order to maintain transparency and inclusivity in resolving the matter, public hearings and consultations will be held following the review.
“While we remain committed to ensuring that their livelihood is sustainable, we must also carefully balance this with the welfare of commuters who are equally affected by the current economic conditions,” the agency stated.
