DOTr approves LTFRB fare hike recommendation for PUVs

Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has approved the recommendation of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board for the implementation of fare hikes for public utility vehicles that were approved in March.

Lopez also approved the LTFRB's recommendation for provisional fare hikes for UV Express and taxi services.

Based on the approved fare hike, P1 will be added to the current minimum fare for jeepneys, and an additional P2 for every succeeding kilometer.

The new minimum fare for traditional jeepneys is P14 (up by one peso from P13) for the first four kilometers, with an additional P2 for every succeeding kilometer (up from P1.80).

For modern jeepneys, the new minimum fare will be P17 (up from P15) for the first four kilometers, with an additional P2.40 for every succeeding kilometer (up from P2.20).

In a Department of Transportation memorandum dated September 25, Lopez responded to the earlier petition from the LTFRB regarding the fare hike.

“Having considered the bases set out in your Memorandum, particularly the prevailing operating cost conditions in the public transport sector and the need to maintain the viability and adequacy of public transport services, the recommendation is hereby APPROVED,” Lopez wrote.

The mandatory discounts for students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities will continue to apply, the memo stated.

Drivers and operators have felt the brunt of soaring fuel prices due to the Middle East conflict. Several bus operators have stated that they may soon be unable to operate if prices are not raised.

Jeepney operators have also reported that some of their drivers have quit plying the roads and returned to their home provinces because they were no longer earning. — With reports from Ivan Mayrina/NB, GMA News