The local government of Lingayen, Pangasinan has approved a P5 provisional increase in tricycle fares after complaints surfaced that some drivers were already charging higher rates due to rising fuel prices.

The minimum tricycle fare in the town was previously set at P20. But as petroleum prices continued to climb, some drivers began collecting more than the set rate, prompting complaints from passengers.

To address the issue, the municipal government called a meeting with members of tricycle operators and drivers associations (TODA). During the meeting, both sides agreed to implement a P5 provisional fare increase.

Lingayen Municipal Administrator Lydia Pioquinto said the move aims to resolve complaints about overcharging while recognizing the impact of fuel price hikes on drivers.

“Nakaka-receive na kasi kami ng mga reklamo mula sa mga student, empleyado kaya nagpatawag na kami ng meeting with them. And sa meeting, since napagkasunduan naman ng lahat, so nag-okay kami,” Pioquinto said.

Some tricycle drivers said the rising cost of fuel has made it difficult for them to support their families.

“Medyo kapos talaga ‘yun. Siyempre may mga anak pa kami na nag-aaral tapos sobrang mahal pa ng bilihin,” Kurt Sison, a tricycle driver, said.

Passengers like Charise Cruz said they support the provisional increase, saying they understand the struggles faced by transport workers.

“Okay lang po kasi talagang kailangan naman din talaga magtaas, nauunawaan naman namin sila,” she said.

The local government said the minimum fare will return to P20 if fuel prices go back to normal.