LTFRB approves fare hike for provincial buses

MANILA, Philippines, March 16 ------ The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has approved the fare increases of provincial buses and other public utility vehicles (PUV) amid ongoing oil price hikes. The LTFRB granted a provisional fare hike on provincial public utility buses (PUBs) effective March 14. Provincial PUBs, deluxe and super deluxe buses went up to P0.35 per kilometer, while luxury buses were bumped to P0.45 per kilometer.

The base fare of ordinary provincial buses went up to P1.00 and another bump of P0.30 per succeeding kilometer. “The LTFRB advises all provincial bus operators to strictly follow the updated Fare Guide and ensure that the approved fares are properly posted inside their units for the guidance of the riding public,” the LTFRB said in a statement. “Passengers are likewise encouraged to verify the correct fares based on the official Fare Guide and report any violations or overcharging incidents to the LTFRB through its official communication channels,” it added.

The fare hike for jeepneys and buses will be announced on Tuesday. “The fare hike is guaranteed but we need to justify the amount to Department of Transportation (DOTr) (acting) Secretary Giovanni Lopez (tomorrow),” LTFRB chairman Vigor Mendoza II told GMA News. “We can’t afford to increase it too much, because it will be very difficult for our passengers. We also have to coordinate with other government agencies on the impact on inflation. We don’t want the prices of commodities to increase too much because of what we’re going to do,” Mendoza said.

Jeepneys and buses are seeking a P2 fare hike. Meanwhile, the fare hikes for taxis and UV Express still need to go through hearings and a nationwide consultation program, Mendoza added.

Source: philstar.com