Philippines Approves Transport Fare Hikes and Fuel Subsidy

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board approved fare increases for most public utility vehicles in the Philippines on Tuesday, effective Thursday, March 19, while initiating a nationwide fuel subsidy program to assist drivers and operators amid surging oil prices triggered by Middle East tensions.

The fare adjustments, announced by LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II during a press briefing in Manila, aim to offset rising fuel costs, higher maintenance expenses, and a nationwide minimum wage increase of 19 pesos from 2022 to 2025. Mendoza described the decision as one of the board's most challenging, emphasizing that it balances the needs of commuters and transport operators. The hikes are provisional and could become permanent by June, with potential reductions if fuel prices stabilize following the resolution of the conflict.

For traditional jeepneys, the minimum fare rises by 1 peso to 14 pesos for the first four kilometers, with an additional 20 centavos per succeeding kilometer, bringing the rate to 2 pesos from 1.80 pesos. Modern jeepneys see a 2-peso increase to 17 pesos minimum, with the per-kilometer rate adjusted to 2.30 pesos from 2.20 pesos. Ordinary...