P1 provisional fare hike for PUJs takes effect

The provisional P1 increase in jeepney fares took effect on Sunday, though several drivers had yet to charge passengers the higher fare.

With the P1 increase, the minimum fare in traditional jeeps rose to P13, while it increased to P15 in modern jeeps.

However, some traditional jeep drivers were still charging passengers P12.

"Di pa naman kami nakakuha ng tarima," explained a driver. "Kailangan makakuha pa para kung may magreklamo pa, at least may mapakita kami na inaprubahan ng LTFRB yung piso."

(We have yet to acquire a fare matrix. We need to get one so if someone complains, at least we can prove that the LTFRB approved the P1 increase.)

However, the LTFRB explained that because the fare increase was provisional, drivers could charge the additional P1 even without a fare matrix.

Instead of a matrix, some drivers make do with just a copy of the LTFRB order.

Meanwhile, transport group Pasang Masda welcomed the P1 fare increase.

"Doon sa P11 pagtataas ng petrolyo ay nalulugi ang ating mga hanap-buhay, ang driver natin na mga P500 plus. Gayunpaman, nakabawi-bawi na tayo kaysa doon sa wala pa 'yung pisong ito," said Pasang Masda President Obet Martin.

(With the P11 fuel price increase, our drivers are P500 short of a profit. But the P1 increase does make up a bit for the loss.)

The LTFRB will hold hearings on the main petition for a P5 fare increase on November 24. — DVM, GMA Integrated News