Transport group Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) has formally submitted a petition to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), requesting a significant fare adjustment for passenger jeepneys. The group is pushing for a P10 increase in the minimum fare, a move that could elevate the base jeepney fare to P23 if approved by the regulatory body.
Economic Pressures Drive Fare Hike Petition
According to PISTON president Mody Floranda, the current economic landscape has placed immense strain on jeepney drivers and operators. Floranda emphasized that temporary government assistance, such as fuel subsidies, has proven inadequate because these measures are typically one-time distributions. He argued that the persistent effects of soaring crude oil prices and rising costs of goods continue to burden the transport sector, making daily operations unsustainable under existing fare structures.
Insufficient Relief Measures
PISTON further criticized other government interventions, noting that the suspension of excise taxes on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene has not provided continuous relief. The group highlighted that while these tax breaks offer some respite, they fail to address escalating expenses like vehicle maintenance, which remain a significant financial drain. Additionally, PISTON pointed out that the recent P1 fare increase granted by the LTFRB is insufficient to meet the daily needs of drivers, who struggle to cover basic living costs amid inflation.
Impact of Fuel Price Fluctuations
Despite occasional rollbacks in oil prices, PISTON contends that these minor reductions do not compensate for the substantial price hikes experienced in previous months. The group asserts that the cumulative effect of these increases has eroded profit margins, leaving many operators in precarious financial positions. This ongoing volatility in fuel costs underscores the urgency of their petition for a more substantial fare adjustment to ensure the viability of jeepney operations.
LTFRB Response and Next Steps
In response to the petition, the LTFRB has assured the public that it will promptly review PISTON's request. The board acknowledged the importance of balancing the needs of transport workers with the affordability of public transportation for commuters. A thorough evaluation will consider factors such as economic indicators, fuel price trends, and the broader impact on the riding public. The outcome of this review could set a precedent for future fare adjustments in the transport sector, potentially influencing similar petitions from other groups.
As the LTFRB deliberates, stakeholders await a decision that could reshape fare structures in the coming months. The petition highlights ongoing challenges in the transport industry, where economic pressures necessitate careful policy considerations to support both operators and passengers.
