The Department of Transportation on Friday ruled out any connection between the government’s public utility vehicle modernization program and its alleged impact on the transport minimum fare rising by P50 at some point, saying the notion has absolutely no basis.
Transportation Secretary Bautista said the agency has always maintained that the primary consideration for any fare increase in public transport is the cost of fuel.
“Fare increase petitions are always subject to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) en banc deliberation. It will also require National Economic Development Authority opinion as to the inflationary effect of any increase as well as giving due consideration to affordability of the commuting public,” he said.
“Thus, LTFRB requests commuter groups to submit to the Board their position on fare increase petitions,” Bautista added.
When the PUV Modernization Program started in 2017, Bautista said the minimum fare for legacy jeepney stood at P9 while the modern jeeps charged ₱11.
Six years from 2023, the agency said the minimum fare for legacy jeepney is only P13 and the modern jeep only P15, meaning, the P2 difference has not changed.
“This shows the LTFRB has always balanced the necessity for drivers (to earn a living) against commuter (welfare) when fuel prices” adjust, Bautista said.
“As such, we strongly believe there is basis on the alleged P50 minimum fare adjustment, he reiterated.
