Quezon city: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is planning to conduct several public consultations nationwide regarding petitions for fare increases, following an order from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to address concerns raised by the transport sector.

According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza II has emphasized the urgency of these consultations, instructing LTFRB regional directors to engage all relevant stakeholders as per the directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. A public consultation at the LTFRB Central Office in Quezon City is scheduled for November 10.

Mendoza acknowledged the challenges faced by the public utility vehicle (PUV) sector due to rising fuel and spare parts costs. However, he stressed the importance of considering the perspectives of all those affected by potential fare hikes. He has mandated regional directors to report the outcomes of their consultations, along with recommendations, by November 4.

Subsequently, the LTFRB plans to submit its findings and recommendations to the office of the Transportation Secretary by November 17. These consultations aim to address the backlog of pending motions and petitions filed by PUV operators, including those for public utility buses, jeepneys, taxis, and other forms of public transport.

Mendoza reiterated the Transportation Secretary’s directive for prompt action on public grievances, assuring a swift outcome and recommendations from the public consultations.