Fare hike petition reviewed
(UPDATE) THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced on Tuesday that it is conducting an in-depth review of a petition filed by various transport groups seeking to increase the minimum fare for public utility jeepneys from P13 to P15. LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III, in a statement, said that the board is taking into account multiple factors before arriving at a decision, including fuel price trends, inflation rates and the broader economic impact on commuters. "We remain committed to ensuring the sustainability of our drivers' and operators' livelihoods, but this must be carefully balanced with the welfare of commuters," Guadiz said. He underscored the LTFRB's understanding of the financial challenges faced by jeepney drivers and operators, many of whom have struggled with rising fuel costs and inflation. However, he also emphasized the board's responsibility to safeguard the interests of the commuting public, which constitutes a significant portion of the country's workforce. To ensure transparency and inclusivity in its decision-making process, the LTFRB has pledged to hold public consultations and hearings. These will provide a platform for all stakeholders, including transport operators, drivers and commuters, to voice their concerns and suggestions. The transport groups' petition comes amid rising transportation costs and economic uncertainty as inflation continues to affect household budgets nationwide. They argue that a fare adjustment is necessary to cope with increasing operational expenses. However, some commuters have expressed concerns that a fare hike could further strain their finances. Guadiz assured the public that the LTFRB will strive to craft a resolution that is equitable for all parties involved. "The board aims to deliver a decision that considers both the needs of our transport workers and the economic realities faced by the riding public," he said. The LTFRB has not provided a specific timeline for its decision but emphasized that thorough deliberation is crucial to achieving a balanced outcome. The minimum jeepney fare was last adjusted in 2022 when it was increased to P13 due to rising fuel prices. Since then, transport groups have pushed for further adjustments, citing continuing economic challenges.
Tomas Kauer - Moderator 
(UPDATE) THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced on Tuesday that it is conducting an in-depth review of a petition filed by various transport groups seeking to increase the minimum fare for public utility jeepneys from P13 to P15.
LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III, in a statement, said that the board is taking into account multiple factors before arriving at a decision, including fuel price trends, inflation rates and the broader economic impact on commuters.
"We remain committed to ensuring the sustainability of our drivers' and operators' livelihoods, but this must be carefully balanced with the welfare of commuters," Guadiz said.
He underscored the LTFRB's understanding of the financial challenges faced by jeepney drivers and operators, many of whom have struggled with rising fuel costs and inflation. However, he also emphasized the board's responsibility to safeguard the interests of the commuting public, which constitutes a significant portion of the country's workforce.
To ensure transparency and inclusivity in its decision-making process, the LTFRB has pledged to hold public consultations and hearings. These will provide a platform for all stakeholders, including transport operators, drivers and commuters, to voice their concerns and suggestions.
The transport groups' petition comes amid rising transportation costs and economic uncertainty as inflation continues to affect household budgets nationwide. They argue that a fare adjustment is necessary to cope with increasing operational expenses. However, some commuters have expressed concerns that a fare hike could further strain their finances.
Guadiz assured the public that the LTFRB will strive to craft a resolution that is equitable for all parties involved.
"The board aims to deliver a decision that considers both the needs of our transport workers and the economic realities faced by the riding public," he said.
The LTFRB has not provided a specific timeline for its decision but emphasized that thorough deliberation is crucial to achieving a balanced outcome.
The minimum jeepney fare was last adjusted in 2022 when it was increased to P13 due to rising fuel prices. Since then, transport groups have pushed for further adjustments, citing continuing economic challenges.
