No PUV fare hike approved yet, LTFRB clarifies
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday clarified that no fare increase has been approved for public utility vehicles (PUVs).
In a statement, the LTFRB said any adjustment to current fare rates remains on hold, pending the outcome of an ongoing study by the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda).
LTFRB Chair Teofilo Guadiz III underscored that the board’s decision on any proposed fare hike will be guided by the findings and recommendation of Neda, in line with regulatory protocols.
“We want to be clear: no fare increase has been approved at this stage. The board is still awaiting the results of Neda’s economic impact study, which will serve as the basis for any future decision on fare adjustments,” Guadiz said.
The LTFRB chair issued the statement amid public speculation and proposals from some transport groups seeking a fare increase in response to operational challenges.
According to Guadiz, the LTFRB is committed to “a data-driven, balanced approach” that considers both the economic realities of operators and the financial welfare of commuters.
Careful study needed
“Fare adjustments are a serious matter that require careful study, especially considering the current economic conditions. We are not rushing into a decision. We are waiting for Neda’s analysis, and the board will act based on facts and expert recommendation,” he said.
The LTFRB said it was “actively coordinating” with other agencies and stakeholders and will release official updates once the Neda study has been completed and a recommendation submitted.
Proposals for a fare hike have been prompted by the continued rise in fuel prices, largely driven by global supply disruptions stemming from the ongoing war in Ukraine and the heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including the conflict between Iran and Israel.
Guadiz was quoted in a television interview on Thursday, saying that the fare increase would be like P1 but only as an addition to the minimum fare, currently P13 in Metro Manila.
