A petition to increase the traditional jeepney fare from ₱13 to ₱15 is under careful review by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). The proposed hike aims to address the growing concerns of jeepney drivers and operators, but the LTFRB emphasizes the importance of balancing their needs with the welfare of commuters.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the LTFRB confirmed that it is conducting a thorough review of the fare adjustment request. The agency is weighing multiple factors, including the impact of rising fuel prices, the country’s inflation rate, and the broader economic consequences of the increase.
“The LTFRB is reviewing the petition thoroughly and will consider all relevant factors, including fuel price trends, inflation rates, and the overall economic impact on the riding public,” the regulator said.
Transparency and Inclusivity in Decision-Making
To ensure fairness and inclusivity, the LTFRB announced plans to hold public hearings and consultations. These sessions aim to give all stakeholders, from commuters to transport operators, a platform to express their opinions.
“The LTFRB remains committed to delivering solutions that are fair and equitable for both our transport operators and commuters,” the agency added.
Transport groups have been lobbying for the fare hike, citing the surging costs of fuel, rising food prices, and the country’s high inflation rate, which reached 5.1% as of December 2024. For jeepney drivers and operators, the current ₱13 minimum fare no longer covers operational costs, let alone supports sustainable livelihoods.
A Balancing Act Between Drivers and Commuters
The LTFRB faces the delicate challenge of addressing the plight of jeepney drivers while protecting commuters from further financial strain. With fuel prices showing no signs of decline, drivers argue that the additional ₱2 per ride could help offset their daily expenses. However, for many Filipinos, even a small increase in transportation costs could make a significant dent in their already stretched budgets.
Jeepneys, the backbone of the Philippines’ public transportation system, serve millions of Filipinos daily, especially in urban and suburban areas. An increase in fare rates would have widespread implications for the riding public, particularly minimum-wage earners and students who rely on this mode of transport for affordability.
Public Sentiment and Economic Pressures
Opinions on the fare hike petition remain divided. Some commuters express concern about how the increase could exacerbate the cost of living, particularly amid rising prices for essential goods.
“Every peso counts these days. A ₱2 increase may not seem like much to others, but for daily commuters like me, it adds up quickly,” said Liza Santos, a market vendor who takes jeepneys to and from her stall.
Meanwhile, jeepney drivers stress that the fare hike is long overdue.
“We’re not asking for luxury—just enough to cover our fuel and food. Right now, we’re barely breaking even,” said Mark Rivera, a jeepney driver in Quezon City.
A Broader Discussion on Public Transport Sustainability
The petition also reignites discussions about long-term solutions to the challenges faced by the Philippine transportation sector. Experts suggest that addressing fuel dependence and modernizing public transport fleets are key to making the system more sustainable. However, these changes require significant government investment and policy reforms.
In the short term, the LTFRB’s decision on the fare hike will set the tone for how transportation policies evolve amid mounting economic pressures.
What Happens Next?
The LTFRB assured the public that its decision will be based on a comprehensive assessment of data and stakeholder input. While no timeline has been set, the agency’s commitment to transparency and fairness aims to build trust among both drivers and commuters.
For now, the Filipino public awaits the LTFRB’s resolution, hoping it strikes the delicate balance between supporting jeepney operators and protecting the commuting public from further financial burdens.