Some jeepney drivers in Pangasinan may temporarily stop operating if diesel prices go beyond P60 per liter, a transport leader said, as fuel costs continue to strain daily earnings.

Jeffrey Perez, president of a jeepney drivers’ group in the province, said many drivers are already struggling with rising expenses and weak passenger turnout.

“Kapag umabot po ng P60 ang diesel, baka po tumigil muna ang iba sa amin. Hindi na po kakayanin,” Perez said.

He explained that higher fuel prices directly cut into their take-home pay, leaving little for their families after boundary payments and other daily costs.

“Sa ngayon po, hirap na hirap na kami. Kapag tumaas pa ang diesel, wala na pong matitira sa amin,” he added.

Perez said some drivers may choose to suspend trips temporarily rather than operate at a loss. Others may reduce the number of hours they spend on the road to save on fuel.

Local transport officials said they are monitoring the situation and are coordinating with concerned agencies for possible assistance should fuel prices continue to rise.

Fuel prices have fluctuated in recent weeks due to developments in the global oil market, affecting public utility vehicle operators across the country.

Meanwhile, a fuel price hike is expected starting March 3, 2026, according to the Department of Energy - Oil Industry Management Bureau (DOE-OIMB).

With diesel going up by P1.20 per liter, gasoline up by P1.90 per liter, and kerosene up by P1.50 per liter.