Baguio: Residents and public utility vehicle (PUV) associations in Baguio have agreed on a voluntary fare increase, introducing a PHP20 minimum fare, following a public consultation aimed at addressing the financial challenges faced by commuters and transport sector workers.
According to Philippines News Agency, the fare scheme establishes a PHP20 voluntary minimum fare with an additional PHP2 per succeeding kilometer for all jeepney routes in the city. This move comes after several jeepney operators mistakenly posted that the fare was mandatory, leading to passenger complaints. Wilson Bumay-et, president of the United Jeepney Operator and Drivers Association in Baguio and Benguet, highlighted the necessity of the fare adjustment to ensure that transport operations remain viable amidst rising fuel costs.
Bumay-et emphasized the strain experienced by drivers who are struggling to cover fuel expenses, noting that the voluntary fare adjustment was a mutual solution to sustain operations without halting services. He expressed gratitude to commuters for their understanding and cooperation during this challenging period.
In March, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board approved fare increases for both traditional and modern jeepneys, but President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. suspended the fare hike due to additional expenses linked to the Middle East conflict. Consequently, jeepney operators have reduced trips to save fuel, resulting in longer waiting times during peak hours.
Taxi drivers in Baguio have also requested a voluntary PHP20 fare increase from passengers, citing similar reasons. Commuters like Dionisio Dennis and government employee Marie Cruz have expressed support for the voluntary measure, recognizing the financial burdens faced by drivers and the need for continuous transportation services.
In a related issue, the city government has issued warnings against unauthorized fee collections by village officials from public utility jeepney associations. City Administrator Vittorio Jerico Cawis condemned these practices as illegal and devoid of empathy, urging transport associations to report any such incidents for immediate action. The city is committed to taking severe administrative action against those involved in extortion activities, emphasizing the vulnerability of the public transport sector during the ongoing fuel crisis.
