Transport groups push for ₱5 hike in minimum jeepney fare
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 22) — Transport groups on Tuesday filed a petition to raise traditional jeepney fares by up to ₱5 as drivers and operators bear the brunt of skyrocketing pump prices.
Filed by Pasang Masda, Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization (ACTO), and Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (ALTODAP), they want to increase base fare for traditional jeepneys from ₱12 to ₱17 for the first four kilometers. They also seek a hike of ₱2.80 for every succeeding kilometer.
However, the groups want the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to first approve a ₱1 provisional fare hike, including for modern jeepneys.
“Yung ₱5 na ‘yan, hindi naman ‘yan actually aaprubahan ng board. Para tayong magtatawaran niyan… Baka tayo umabot sa ₱2 increase,” Pasang Masda President Obet Martin said.
[Translation: That ₱5 will not actually be approved by the board. It's like we're betting on that. We might reach a ₱2 increase.]
The fare hike is initially for Metro Manila in light of the recent wage hike, but the groups said they are set to file the same petition in Central Luzon and Calabarzon afterward.
Meanwhile, ALTODAP President Boy Vargas said they expect diesel prices to rise up to ₱80 per liter in December as he appeals for understanding from commuters.
Under the LTFRB memorandum circular 2019-035, fare adjustments can be automatic if fuel prices reach certain rates.
However, LTFRB technical division chief Joel Bolano said the petitions still have to undergo hearings in compliance with the Public Service Act.
“Kailangan ho may inputs from NEDA (National Economic and Development Authority), other agencies para may basis din aside from sa pag-increase ng fuel para maging balanse ‘yung desisyon ng board,” Bolano explained.
Aside from jeepneys, taxi drivers and operators are renewing their appeal for a ₱30 hike in their flag-down rate after fuel prices increased for the seventh straight week.
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