Manila: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced its intention to implement a moratorium on loan payments for modern jeepneys and increase fuel discounts for public utility vehicles (PUVs) amid ongoing fuel price hikes. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on public transport operators and drivers.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that he will address a letter to the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), the two banks that finance loans for modern PUVs under the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), requesting the moratorium. This action aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to government agencies to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs.

Furthermore, the DOTr, in collaboration with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), is evaluating the expansion of the PHP10 per liter fuel discount for PUVs. Lopez emphasized the importance of a targeted approach that benefits PUV operators and drivers, rather than implementing a fare increase that would impact all commuters. He suggested that the additional income sought by traditional and modern jeepney operators, ranging from PHP300 to PHP500, could be provided through fuel subsidies.

The DOTr is considering larger fuel discounts and increased discounted fuel volumes for PUVs to counterbalance the rising fuel prices. Lopez highlighted the goal of protecting commuters while maintaining inflation levels through targeted measures.

On Wednesday, Lopez instructed the LTFRB to initiate public consultations on pending fare hike petitions for PUVs. Transport groups Manibela and PISTON are advocating for a PHP10 fare increase. Lopez noted the necessity of these consultations due to the potential inflationary impact of any fare adjustments, which remains a significant concern for Filipinos, according to a recent Pulse Asia survey.