MANILA, Philippines — Commuters in Metro Manila should brace for higher transportation costs starting Tuesday, March 17, following the approval of a provisional fare increase for Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs). The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) granted the petition from various transport groups, citing the “unavoidable” impact of successive oil price hikes that have pushed diesel prices toward the ₱100-per-liter mark.
The adjustment applies to traditional and modernized jeepneys, as well as buses operating within the National Capital Region (NCR). Under the new fare matrix, the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys will see a ₱1.00 increase, while modernized jeepneys and buses will implement similar tiered adjustments based on the distance traveled.
“We recognize the burden this places on the commuting public, but we must also ensure the viability of our transport sector,” an LTFRB official stated. “With global crude prices surging past $100 per barrel due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, our drivers and operators are struggling to break even. This provisional hike is a necessary measure to keep our public transport system running.”
Transport groups, including PISTON and FEJODAP, welcomed the move but noted that the ₱1.00 increase is a “stop-gap measure” that may not be enough if fuel prices continue their upward trajectory. They are calling for more long-term solutions, such as the suspension of the excise tax on fuel and more efficient distribution of the government’s fuel subsidy program.
The LTFRB reminded operators that they must prominently display the official fare matrix inside their vehicles before they can collect the new rates. Drivers found overcharging or collecting the increase without the updated matrix face stiff penalties and the potential suspension of their franchises.
Meanwhile, commuter rights advocates have expressed concern over the “inflationary domino effect” of the fare hike. Higher transport costs typically lead to increased prices for basic goods and services, adding further pressure on low-income households already grappling with rising food and utility bills.
As the new rates take effect tomorrow, the government is urging the public to remain patient and report any violations to the LTFRB hotline. Authorities are also fast-tracking the release of the second tranche of fuel subsidies for qualified PUV drivers to provide additional relief amidst the energy crisis.