Confirmed Na: Jeepney at Bus Fare Hike Tuloy — PISTON Nagbabanta Pa ng Transport Strike
Brace yourselves, commuters — the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has officially confirmed that fare hikes for jeepneys and buses are a go. LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza announced that the exact amounts will be revealed on Tuesday after getting approval from Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez.
"Yung pagtataas, sigurado na po yun," Mendoza said, making it clear that the fare increase is locked in. The hike will cover all public utility vehicles that previously filed petitions, including jeepneys and buses. However, taxis and UV Express fares won't be announced just yet — their petitions still need to go through hearings and a nationwide consultation.
The fare hike comes as the Philippines reels from the impact of the Middle East conflict on global oil prices. Another massive round of oil price increases is expected next week, with diesel projected to jump by P19 to P22 per liter and gasoline by P12 to P16 per liter. The Philippine peso has also hit a new record low of 59.735 against the US dollar, adding more pressure to an already strained economy.
Meanwhile, transport group PISTON is not backing down. National president Mody Floranda confirmed they will push through with protest actions against the effects of the Middle East conflict on fuel prices. "Karapatan nating ituloy ang pagkilos na ito," he declared, calling on the US to stop its aggression. PISTON will hold a press conference on Monday to announce the dates of their planned nationwide transport strike.
On the other side, ALTODAP president Melencio Vargas urged jeepney drivers to keep operating despite the hardship. "Makapag-uwi kami ng 300 to 400 pesos, kahit paano pambili na ng bigas 'yun," he said, painting a bleak picture of the daily struggle of Filipino drivers who have no other livelihood. The DSWD and LTFRB are expected to distribute subsidies to help ease the burden on transport workers.
Source: GMA News
