By Leilanie Adriano/PNA
LAOAG CITY — Owing to the oil price increase and the soaring prices of motorcycle spare parts, commuters in Batac City need to brace for additional expense as PHP3 has been added to the current PHP11 basic tricycle fare.
On Monday, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) finally approved an ordinance prescribing the new fare rates for tricycles-for-hire in the city.
The Batac Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (BATODA) asked for a PHP14 minimum fare for the first 1.5 km. and an additional PHP1 for every succeeding kilometer.
Student fare is pegged at PHP12.50 for the first 1.5 km. and PHP1 for every succeeding kilometer.
As prescribed by law, both senior citizens and persons with disabilities shall continue to enjoy a 20-percent discount from the regular fare provided they present their authorized identification cards.
Batac City Mayor Albert Chua said fare adjustment will take effect immediately after approval of the ordinance.
Tricycle drivers and operators, however, have been warned to refrain from overcharging their passengers to avoid being penalized.
Under Ordinance No. 4SP 2018-18, violators will be charged PHP200 to PHP600 and a possible three-month suspension of the motorized tricycle operator’s permit for the third and succeeding offenses.
It may be recalled that on Nov. 22, 2018, the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s committee on laws conducted a public consultation where tricycle drivers and operators, students and all other concerned parties attended.
Meanwhile, tricycle drivers in Laoag City are also asking for an additional PHP4 basic fare to bring rates to PHP15, and PHP2 per km. after the first kilometer, up from the present PHP1.
The proposed fare adjustment in Laoag is currently being reviewed for consideration.
The Laoag city government last increased fare rates in 2011 through City Ordinance 2011-077, which raised basic fare rates from PHP8 to PHP11.
