By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz

FARE HIKE. Traditional jeepneys load and offload passengers at the corner of Agoncillo and Pedro Gil in Ermita, Manila on Oct. 21, 2024. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on Tuesday (Jan. 21, 2025) said it is studying a PHP15 minimum fare hike petitioned by various transport groups due to rising fuel prices and other costs. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

MANILA – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is looking into a PHP15 minimum fare hike for public utility jeepneys (PUJ) based on the petition of various transport groups.

In a statement Tuesday, the LTFRB said the petition is being reviewed “thoroughly,” with all relevant factors considered such as fuel price trends, inflation rates, and the overall impact on commuters.

“While we remain committed to ensuring that their livelihood is sustainable, we must also carefully balance this with the welfare of commuters who are equally affected by the current economic conditions,” it said.

After the review, there will be public hearings and consultations on the possible fare hike to ensure transparency and inclusivity in the decision-making process.

“Rest assured, the LTFRB remains committed to delivering solutions that are fair and equitable for both our transport operators and commuters,” it said.

The current minimum fare of PHP13 for traditional PUJs and PHP15 for modern PUJs began Oct. 8, 2023.

Since then, several transport groups have called for a fare hike, citing increases in fuel costs, rising food costs, and inflation. (PNA)