LTFRB summons 8 bus companies over alleged illegal fare hikes

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued a show cause order (SCO) against eight bus companies for allegedly implementing fare increases without the government’s approval.

In a statement on Monday, LTFRB chair Vigor Mendoza II said the eight bus operators are now facing the possible suspension and cancellation of their respective Certificates of Public Convenience (CPC).

“We understand the challenges that bus companies and other operators of public utility vehicles are facing now but these challenges must never be used as a reason or as an excuse to violate existing regulations at the expense of commuters,” Mendoza said.

“This is not acceptable and they must explain properly why they should not be penalized,” he added.

Some of the bus companies are allegedly plying the Bicol region routes.

Earlier on Monday, the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) said it has reported eight bus operators to the LTFRB for allegedly increasing fares without approval.

The SCO compelled the bus operators to explain within 10 days why their CPC should not be suspended or cancelled over allegations of imposing additional fare without the LTFRB’s authorization.

“All those issued with SCOs were also directed to cease and desist from overcharging or collecting additional fare,” the LTFRB said.

The bus companies’ owners or representatives were summoned to a hearing before the LTFRB on April 3.

The LTFRB warned that the respondents’ failure to submit an explanation or attend the hearing shall be considered as a waiver of their right to be heard and will end up in the imposition of a P5,000 fine.

It may be recalled that earlier this month, the LTFRB approved fare adjustments for public utility vehicles (PUVs), including passenger buses.

However, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. suspended the implementation of the fare hikes and said this is not the time to impose heavier burdens on commuters amid recent oil price surges.

“The instruction of President Marcos and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez is clear and simple. There must be no fare hike. And we will not allow defiance of this instruction,” Mendoza said.

He reiterated his warning to PUV operators and told them not to overcharge passengers, adding that the LTFRB has already deployed “mystery riders” to run after erring PUV drivers and operators.

Mendoza also urged commuters to report any case of illegal fare hike and overcharging of fares to the LTFRB. — JMA, GMA News