Some bus companies in Dagupan City have started reducing and combining trips as they try to conserve fuel amid rising diesel prices.

Transport operators said they are implementing “combined trips,” where only one bus operates during hours with fewer passengers instead of two. Additional trips will still be added during peak hours in the morning and afternoon when demand is higher.

Bus operators are also limiting fuel consumption by turning on engines and air-conditioning units only five minutes before a scheduled departure.

Drivers said routine vehicle maintenance is also helping reduce fuel use.

“Sa paglilinis ng air cleaner para maayos yung takbo niya, tapos swabe lang ang takbo,” Jeovel Seriosa, a bus driver, said.

Some bus companies have also suspended free ride or bus pass privileges temporarily to help maintain their operations amid higher fuel costs.

Despite the rising petroleum prices, river transport services in Dagupan continue to operate. Motor banca or river taxi drivers said they will keep running trips as long as they have enough fuel.

“Hangga’t may gasolina, tuloy-tuloy pa rin pero ’pag naubusan tayo ng stocks, matitigil ’yung operation,” Jayson Sison, a motorboat driver, said.

Boat operators said they have no plans yet to increase fares. Current rates remain at around P20 for trips to Calmoy and about P25 for other island barangays.

However, operators said they hope the rising cost of fuel will not trigger increases in other basic goods, warning that it could make it harder for transport workers to support their families.