Manila: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is set to hold weekly hearings and public consultations on petitions for fare increases in public transportation following a series of oil price hikes.

According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza II announced that these hearings align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to balance the welfare of commuters and the transport sector. Mendoza stated that two hearings are scheduled for next week to address the fare increase petitions, with subsequent weekly hearings planned.

Mendoza highlighted that various transport groups have filed petitions to raise the minimum fare for public transport due to escalating oil prices and maintenance costs. A verification study by the LTFRB supported the arguments presented in these petitions, indicating that drivers and operators face disadvantages under the current fare matrix.

The petitions propose making the PHP1 provisional fare increase in 2023 permanent and adding a PHP2 increase to the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys, raising it from PHP13 to PHP15. Mendoza acknowledged the impact of fare hikes on commuters who depend on affordable transportation but emphasized the need for drivers and operators to sustain services and meet their families' needs.

Beyond jeepneys, fare hikes are also being sought by passenger buses and taxis. The hearings will involve experts and coordination with government agencies, including the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development.

In 2023, the LTFRB approved a PHP1 provisional fare increase for passenger jeepneys, setting the minimum fare at PHP13 for traditional jeepneys and PHP15 for modern jeepneys.