DOTC’s Abaya: MRT fare increase subject to better service

The Department of Transportation and Communications on Tuesday revealed that Metro Rail Transit (MRT) fares may increase by P6 to P10 as early as January next year.

 

However, there are some considerations the DOTC must take related to when exactly the MRT fares will increase foremost of which is level of service the mass transport system offers commuters in Metro Manila.

 

“Deciding on fare hikes are not merely on the [2013] budget,” Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Emilo Abaya told reporters at the sidelines of the Senate hearing on DOTC’s budget for 2013.

 

“There are other factors to be considered, one of which is that we have an improved service before even demanding P6 to P10 price increase… 

 

“Of course there are consultations to be made… The President has to know about this before any implementation comes into play,” the Transportation and Communications chief noted.

 

MRT plies the EDSA route, serving half a million passengers daily, and charges P15 for a full ride to the Taft Avenue station in Pasay City from the North Avenue station in Quezon City.

 

Last year, DOTC approved a P28 fare increase for a full ride, but its implementation was deferred amid the clamor of various groups. — VS, GMA News