By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — A transport group’s petition to raise the minimum jeepney fare by P10 is facing strong opposition from both Manila commuters and drivers, who say the proposed jump from P13 to P23 is too heavy for ordinary Filipinos.
The fare hike was filed with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on Monday, citing diesel prices that remain above P100 per liter. The transport group said the increase is meant only to help drivers recover losses from fuel costs, not to earn a profit.
Jeepney drivers say they understand the need for higher fares but worry about passengers. Many drivers note their daily take-home pay barely covers food for their families, with nothing left by the next day.
“Fare increases help our income, but it’s pitiful for commuters because their wages don’t increase,” one driver explained. For many, the choice is between earning enough to survive and losing passengers who simply can’t afford the ride.
Private individuals and students say the hike would hit them hardest. For students, daily transport costs could rise to over P70 round-trip if the petition is approved.
“A 5-peso increase is understandable because fuel is expensive, but 10 pesos is too much for someone who isn’t rich,” a university student said. Others admit they already skip student discounts and pay full fare out of sympathy for drivers, but warn that a P10 jump would force them to cut trips or walk longer distances.
Many commuters say they feel trapped: they sympathize with drivers’ fuel expenses, yet their own salaries and allowances haven’t moved.
The LTFRB is reviewing multiple fare hike petitions for jeepneys, buses, and taxis. Transport officials said commuters’ welfare must be considered before any decision.
Last month, the President suspended a separate fare increase due to global fuel uncertainties and ordered free rides nationwide instead, citing the need to “continue to support commuters.” The Department of Transportation has previously warned that fare hikes during fuel surges could worsen inflation.
Both drivers and riders agree on one point: wages and allowances aren’t rising with diesel prices. Until that gap is addressed, a P10 fare hike feels less like a solution and more like a new burden for Manila’s working class and students.
ia/xf
