The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is reviewing a petition from various transport groups seeking a P15 minimum fare for public utility jeepneys, a move that could impact the daily commute of millions of Filipinos.
LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III acknowledged the financial pressures facing jeepney drivers and operators due to rising fuel prices and the escalating cost of living. “We understand the challenges faced by our drivers and operators,” Guadiz said. “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.”
At present, the minimum fare for jeepneys stands at P13, and any hike would directly affect the budgets of commuters who rely on public transport for their daily activities. Guadiz emphasized that the board is thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the petition, including trends in fuel prices, inflation, and the broader economic impact on the public.
To ensure a transparent decision-making process, the LTFRB will conduct public hearings and consultations, allowing stakeholders—including commuters, operators, and drivers—to voice their concerns. “Rest assured, the LTFRB remains committed to delivering solutions that are fair and equitable for both our transport operators and commuters,” Guadiz said.
The outcome of this review could reshape fare structures for the nation’s jeepney system, which remains a crucial part of the country’s public transport infrastructure. Commuters and transport groups alike await the agency’s decision, which will balance economic pressures with the need for fair transportation costs.
