Public transport associations in the Philippines have expressed that a proposed P1 fare hike for public utility vehicles is inadequate to offset the upcoming surge in fuel prices, projected to rise sharply due to geopolitical tensions.
Officials from various transport groups in the Philippines have challenged the efficacy of the proposed P1 increase in fares for public utility vehicles (PUVs), stating it falls short of addressing the significant rise in fuel costs expected next week. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) recommended this fare adjustment to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) as oil prices are anticipated to spike in light of renewed tensions between the United States and Iran. Industry insiders expect diesel prices to rise by as much as P11 per liter, with gasoline increasing by P4 per liter.
Mar Valbuena, national chairman of the transport group Manibela, described the fare hike as significantly delayed but still insufficient given the fuel price projections, calling it a minimal relief. Jeepney drivers like Medardo Bien report that most of their income now goes solely to covering diesel expenses, leaving them financially strained. Several drivers caution that if fuel prices keep climbing, some may cease operations or seek alternative employment to support their families.
LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II states that the one-peso fare increase has been forwarded to the DOTr and suggests this increment remains manageable for commuters. He also highlighted government efforts to broaden the existing P10-per-liter fuel discount program to include more public transport modes such as taxis, buses, and TNVS (transport network vehicle services).
Nevertheless, transport leaders emphasize limited access and participation in the fuel subsidy program. Manibela and Pasang Masda leaders urge the expansion of the discount to more fuel stations nationwide, noting that many stations currently do not honor it, even in Metro Manila. The LTFRB aims to involve approximately 1,900 strategically located gasoline stations in the subsidy program expansion.
Additionally, Pasang Masda considers petitioning for a higher fare increase if fuel prices continue to soar.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/995352/transport-groups-belittle-looming-p1-fare-hike/story/
