LTFRB OKs P1 provisional fare hike for jeepneys in Metro Manila, Regions 3 and 4

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Wednesday approved a P1 provisional increase on the minimum fare of public utility jeepneys, according to a "24 Oras" report by Joseph Morong.

The fare hike will cover jeepneys plying in Metro Manila, Region 3 and Region 4.

The minimum fare covering the first four kilometers is now P10.

BREAKING: LTFRB approves provisional P1 peso fare hike for jeepneys in Metro Manila, Regions 3 and 4 @gmanews

— Joseph Morong ???????? (@Joseph_Morong) June 8, 2022

The hike came following petitions by various transport organizations amid the continuous increase in prices of oil.

The petitioners were 1-United Transport Koalisyon, Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila & Suburbs Drivers Association Nationwide o Pasang Masda, Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines, and Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations.

The groups sought a P5 increase in fare hike as early as March 2022, but was rejected by the LTFRB.

In granting the June increase, the transport agency said "while the Board recognizes the plight of the Filipino people every time an increase on price of commodities occur, including the cost of public transport, it cannot be insensitive to the clamor and plight of PUV operators and drivers who are responsible in ensuring a steady supply of public transport services."

"It is noteworthy that the PUJ service, to which mode of public transport the petitioners belong, carries the most number of ordinary commuters on a daily basis," LTFRB said, adding it needs to balance "the economic viability of the industry versus the welfare of the riding public."

Oil price hikes

The price per liter of gasoline was up anew on June 6 by P2.70, diesel by P6.55, and kerosene by P5.45.

Domestic pump prices have so far been on an uptrend for most of the year, with only eight weekly rollbacks implemented in 2022.

Latest data available from the Department of Energy (DOE) show that year-to-date adjustments stand at a net increase of P23.85 per liter for gasoline, P30.30 per liter for diesel, and P27.65 per liter for kerosene as of May 31, 2022.—LDF, GMA News