The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has suspended the planned fare increases for public utility vehicles (PUVs) following a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., as global oil prices continue to rise due to tensions in the Middle East.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the move aims to protect commuters and transport workers from the effects of fluctuating fuel costs. The agency is rolling out in earnest instead, support measures, including fuel subsidies, free rides, and toll discounts.
Earlier, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) had approved fare increases across several transport sectors. These included higher minimum fares for traditional and modern jeepneys, airport taxis, ride-hailing services, and buses.
For jeepneys, the approved increase would have raised the minimum fare to P14 for traditional units and P17 for modern ones. Airport taxi flag-down rates were set to increase to P115, while base fares for transport network vehicle services (TNVS) were also approved to rise.
Bus fares in Metro Manila and provincial routes were likewise scheduled to increase, with adjustments varying by type of service.
Despite these earlier approvals, the DOTr said the fare hikes are on hold while the government prioritizes immediate assistance to affected sectors.
