Transport groups welcome LTFRB fare adjustment, cite relief amid oil price shocks

Transport community groups on Tuesday welcomed the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board's (LTFRB) decision to adjust the base fares for transport network vehicle service (TNVS) amid continuing fuel price increases.

In a press release, the groups called the move “a much-needed relief for transport professionals grappling with rising fuel and operating costs.”

The TNVS fare structure had remained unchanged since 2019 despite oil pump price hikes, even before the Middle East conflict started, according to the TNVS sector.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the LTFRB and the DOTr (Department of Transportation) for heeding our long-standing call for a fair and just adjustment of the base fare,” said Walter Lugay, spokesperson of TNVS Community Philippines.

“This decision is a vital recognition of the challenges ordinary drivers and operators face in today’s volatile economic climate,” Lugay added.

He also said that this is "more than just a price increase; it is a lifeline to ensure driver retention — preventing our members from leaving the service due to unsustainable operating costs.”

Under the fare adjustments set by the LTFRB, the TNVS base fare will increase by P20, while the pick-up fare per kilometer will increase by P15.

This brings the new base fares to P65 from P45 for sedans; P75 from P55 for AUVs; P55 from P35 for hatchbacks; and P165 from P145 for premium TNVS.

The LTFRB had said there will be no increase in the per-kilometer and per-minute travel time charges for TNVS.

Meanwhile, the group also emphasized that easing these financial burdens would also help ensure that vehicles remain roadworthy and safe for passengers.

“By addressing these financial burdens, we can help ensure that our vehicles remain in top condition for the safety of our passengers,” Lugay said.

“We remain committed to providing safe, reliable, and high-quality service, serving as partners with the government and the public in keeping our transport system stable and dependable,” he added.

According to the United Transportation Coalition Philippines, Inc. (UTCP), the LTFRB’s decision reflects the government’s recognition of the challenges all transport workers deal with every day.

“We thank the LTFRB for listening to the appeals raised by our coalition through a series of dialogues,” said Lisza Buscaino-Redulla, president of UTCP.

“It means a great deal to our sector that the government saw and heard our concerns — from our call for immediate assistance to our appeal for a fair increase in the base fare — especially amid the mega oil price hikes that continue to weigh heavily on the livelihoods of drivers,” she added.

The coalition also said it would continue to monitor market developments and their impact on transport professionals nationwide, while sustaining its engagement with relevant government agencies. — BAP, GMA Integrated News