The Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board has approved fare increases across all public transportation nationwide effective Sept. 16.
In its decision released also on Sept. 16, the LTFRB increased the minimum fare in traditional public utility jeepneys (TPUJs), modern public utility jeepneys (MPUJs), public utility buses (PUBs), taxi and transport network vehicle service following the petitions filed by transport groups early this year.
The LTFRB has approved a P1 provisional increase for TPUJs and MPUJs, bringing the minimum fare rate for TPUJs from P11 to P12 for the first four kilometers while fare for MPUJs is now at P14 from P13.
The Board also approved an additional fare of 30 centavos per succeeding kilometer for TPUJs and additional 40 centavos per succeeding kilometer for MPUJs.
Based on the increase, the fare for the succeeding kilometer run for TPUJ is now P1.80 from the previous P1.50 and for MPUJ, from P1.80 to P2.20 for the succeeding kilometer.
Transport groups previously petitioned for a P14 minimum fare for TPUJs and P16 for MPUJs.
The LTFRB also approved a P5 increase in the flagdown rate of taxis and TNVS. The minimum fare rate for taxis and sedan-type TNVS will be P45 and AUV/SUV-type TNVS will be P55 and hatchback-type TNVS will be P35 with no increase in the succeeding kilometers.
The current flagdown rate in Baguio City is P35.
For areas with city and provincial buses, the minimum rate for ordinary city bus is now P13 from P11 and rate for succeeding kilometer from P1.85 to P2.25; and for aircon city bus from P13 to P15 and P2.65 for succeeding kilometer from P2.20.
Fare for ordinary provincial bus is now P11 from P9, and P1.90 for succeeding kilometer from P1.55, among other increases.
LTFRB said the 20 percent discount for senior citizens, students, and persons with disability will still be effective.
The Board said it recognized the need for a fare increase following the continuing increase in oil prices.
It said it consulted the National Economic Development Authority and the Department of Energy on the matter.
The LTFRB Franchise Planning and Monitoring Division used the fare adjustment formula based on Memorandum Circular 2019-035, the opinion of stakeholders, and increasing operational cost of PUVs.
The agency reminded drivers to follow the guidelines and policies of LTFRB and adhere to the minimum public health protocols as violations will be dealt with accordingly.
Liga ng mga Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas Region 1 and Cordillera president Patricio Evangelista appreciated the adjustments, saying it will somehow ease the situation of the transport sector. – Hanna C. Lacsamana
April 26, 2024
