MANILA — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved on Wednesday a PHP2 fare increase for public utility jeepneys.
In its decision, the LTFRB said it has granted a petition filed by various transport groups seeking for a permanent fare hike for jeepneys — from PHP8 to PHP10.
“The Board hereby resolves to grant the petition for a fare increase, to make permanent the provisional increase of PHP1 granted on July 6, 2018 and an additional PHP1 for the first four kilometers or a minimum fare of PHP10 from the original fare of PHP8,” LTFRB decision read.
The LTFRB said the petition for a PHP1 increase for every succeeding kilometers after the first four kilometer is denied for lack of factual and legal basis.
The decision shall be effective 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general and/or local circulation.
However, the Board clarified that drivers must not impose the new jeepney fare yet as it has yet to release an official copy of the decision.
“Please be informed that the LTFRB will release an official copy once the document is signed by the LTFRB Executive Director and marked as docketed. We request drivers to wait until the LTFRB releases the official document on the fare hike before charging any additional fare,” the LTFRB said in a statement.
In a radio interview last week, LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III said they will decide on the jeepney fare hike which is aimed at mitigating the impact of a series of oil price increases in the country.
The LTFRB chief said they strive to come up with a fare structure that will balance the welfare of the riding public and ensure sustainable income for jeepney operators and drivers. (Aerol John Pateña/PNA)
