Pasang Masda asks for gov't aid to stem petition for fare hike

If the government will not provide subsidies for public utility drivers, then transport group Pasang Masada will be forced to file a petition for fare increase as the prices of fuel products continue to spiral.

In Dano Tingcungco's "24 Oras" report, some jeepney drivers like Anastacio Merdal are hurting because of the hike in gasoline price.

Latest data from the Department of Energy showed that gasoline increased by P15 per liter while the price of diesel is now P14 higher.

Public transport drivers said the P9 fare would be enough if gasoline is worth P40 per liter but currently, it is at P46. With this, jeepney drivers said they need to ask for a P3 increase in the minimum fare.

For now, they said they are setting aside their petition for fare increase but only if they receive a subsidy from the government to augment their gasoline allowance.

"Hangga't maaari ginagawa namin pamamaraan makausap ang ahensya ng pamahalaan  lalo na para sa subsidy," Pasang Masda president Obet Martin said.

(We will first talk to government agencies, especially when it comes to subsidies.)

The Department of Transportation has maintained that it will not allow any increase for fares as Filipinos continue to suffer from the health crisis.

Energy Assistant Secretary Gerardo Erquiza said the subsidy may be "put into conversation."—Consuelo Marquez/LDF, GMA News