Manila: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday announced there will be no fare hike for traditional and modern jeepneys after a big-time oil price rollback lowered diesel prices. Transportation groups are seeking a PHP1 to PHP2 fare hike from the current PHP13 minimum fare for traditional jeepneys and the PHP15 minimum fare for modern jeepneys.
According to Philippines News Agency, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that it was not the right time for a fare hike. Lopez emphasized the potential economic impact a fare increase could have, especially as many provinces are still recovering from recent calamities such as earthquakes and typhoons.
A study by the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development indicated that a PHP1 to PHP2 base fare hike for jeepneys could increase the country's inflation rate in the next two years. Aside from affecting commuters, the fare hike would also impact the prices of basic goods.
LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza noted that five regions, including Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Bicol Region, Central Visayas, and Metro Manila, oppose a fare hike. A study by the LTFRB and dialogues with transport groups revealed that PUV operators are reconsidering the fare hike.
In response to concerns about earnings for PUV drivers and operators, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and LTFRB, in partnership with the Department of Justice and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, have established the Anti-Colorum Task Force. This initiative aims to target unregistered or 'colorum' PUVs, which are believed to divert as much as 30 percent of legitimate PUV drivers and operators.
Lopez affirmed the commitment of the DOTr and LTFRB to pursue those involved in illegal operations, emphasizing the importance of protecting legitimate PUV drivers and commuters. Meanwhile, Mendoza urged unregistered PUVs, particularly transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers and operators, to utilize the 17,000 available registration slots, assuring a fair and quick registration process.
