Manila: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is studying a petition filed by major transport groups seeking a provisional fare increase for public utility jeepneys (PUJs).

According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III stated that the petition was filed by PASANG MASDA, ALTODAP, and ACTO on Monday. The groups are seeking a PHP1 provisional fare increase and other fare adjustments for both traditional and modern PUJs.

In total, the petitioners are asking the LTFRB to declare the previous PHP1 provisional fare hike granted in October 2023 as permanent and to grant an additional PHP2 provisional increase. This would raise the minimum fare from PHP13 to PHP15 for traditional PUJs. Meanwhile, the petitioners are also seeking a minimum fare increase for modern PUJs, from PHP14 to PHP19.

The petition includes multiple filings between August 2023 and March 2025, with proposals ranging from base fare hikes to adjustments per succeeding kilometer.

Guadiz emphasized that the petition is being studied in detail to ensure any fare adjustment is fair, reasonable, and based on solid justification. He assured stakeholders that the study will consider both the welfare of commuters and PUJ operators, aiming to balance the needs of the riding public and the sustainability of public transport operations.

The LTFRB will follow due process in the fare hike study, which includes holding public consultations and hearings. Guadiz stated that the board will listen to all sides before making a decision, as part of their mandate to ensure transparent and participatory fare-setting.