Manila: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday met with transport network vehicle service (TNVS) stakeholders to discuss their proposed fare hike and other concerns.

According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza II stated that the meeting was the first in a series of consultations following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure the welfare of those in the public transport sector. Mendoza emphasized the importance of hearing all perspectives, noting that the discussion on fare increase is a sensitive issue affecting both commuters and the economy.

Mendoza requested that TNVS stakeholders submit necessary documents for deliberating the justification of a fare increase. He expressed hope for compliance, pointing out that a lack of cooperation would complicate the LTFRB's decision-making process, leaving it to rely solely on its own data.

The meeting also addressed issues such as the commission of TNVS drivers and operators, and the extended duty hours of drivers. Although some issues extend beyond the LTFRB's jurisdiction, Mendoza assured that they will be consolidated and addressed in discussions with relevant government agencies, including the Department of Labor and Employment and the Office of the Solicitor General.

Mendoza expressed the LTFRB's goal to reach a decision satisfactory to all parties, ensuring a balance between commuters' ability to pay and addressing concerns of the public transport sector. He also announced upcoming public consultations with bus, taxi, and jeepney stakeholders in the coming days and weeks.

On February 18, Mendoza revealed plans for a series of weekly hearings and public consultations with representatives of the public transport sector, focusing on fare increases in response to oil price hikes. He noted that various transport groups have filed multiple fare hike petitions since the PHP1 provisional fare increase was approved in 2023.