LTFRB considers provisional fare hike if diesel reaches P60 per liter

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is looking into granting provisional fare increases for almost all types of public transportation if diesel prices reach P60 per liter.

According to Joseph Morong’s report on Super Radyo DZBB, LTFRB chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said the move is being considered amid rising global oil prices triggered by tensions in the Middle East, which have pushed up petroleum costs in the world market.

He said a petition seeking fare adjustments for public utility buses and jeepneys has already been submitted for resolution and may soon be decided upon.

Transport groups are asking for a P2 increase in minimum fares for buses and jeepneys. Transport network vehicle services (TNVS), meanwhile, are seeking a P20 increase in their flag-down rate.

Provincial bus operators are requesting an additional P0.50 per kilometer, while point-to-point (P2P) buses are asking for a 30% to 40% fare hike.

For instance, a P120 fare from Alabang to the airport could rise to no less than P200 if the proposed adjustment is approved.

At present, UV Express units and regular taxis have not filed petitions for fare increases.

Mendoza said the board is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and may wait for tensions to ease before releasing a decision on the pending petitions.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it is preparing for the possible rollout of fuel subsidies for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators if oil prices continue to climb.

The DOTr and the LTFRB are now preparing the necessary documents for the release of subsidies once global crude oil prices hit $80 per barrel.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said the move is in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure government readiness to assist affected drivers and operators amid potential fuel price spikes.

The government has earmarked P2.5 billion for fuel subsidies, which will be distributed once the $80-per-barrel threshold is reached.

Authorities earlier said the contingency measure aims to cushion the impact of oil price volatility on the public transport sector and prevent sudden fare increases from heavily burdening commuters. –Sherylin Untalan/NB, GMA Integrated News