Cebu Transport Groups Slam Approved Fare Hike as Insufficient Amid Fuel Price Surge
Transport groups in Cebu have voiced their profound dissatisfaction with the recently approved fare increase for public transportation, labeling it as woefully inadequate in the face of soaring fuel prices and escalating operational expenses. The announcement, made by Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, and approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), has sparked immediate backlash from local operators and drivers.
Criticism from Traditional and Modern Jeepney Operators
Greg Perez, President of Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston)-Cebu, strongly criticized the P1 increase in the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys. In a telephone interview with SunStar Cebu, Perez described the approved hike as an "insult" that fails to provide any meaningful financial relief to drivers and operators grappling with severe economic hardships. He emphasized that the amount is insufficient to cover the rising costs of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and daily operational expenses, which continue to climb relentlessly.
Meanwhile, Ellen Maghanoy, President of the Federation of Cebu Transport Cooperatives (FCTC), echoed similar concerns regarding the P2 increase for modern public utility jeepneys (PUJs). Maghanoy stated that this adjustment falls short of addressing their operational costs, leaving many cooperatives struggling to sustain their services amidst the ongoing economic pressures.
LTFRB's Justification and Implementation Details
Prior to the announcement, LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II explained that the fare adjustments were based on a comprehensive cost analysis and involved consultations with various stakeholders. The increase is set to take effect once operators receive and display the new fare matrix in each of their units. However, this rationale has done little to appease the discontent among transport groups, who argue that the process did not adequately reflect the harsh realities on the ground.
Planned Protest Actions and Broader Implications
In response to the fare hike, Perez announced that Piston-Cebu will join planned protest actions to demand a more substantial increase that aligns with actual cost burdens. This move highlights the growing frustration within the transport sector, which is vital to Cebu's daily commute and economic activity. The situation underscores broader challenges in balancing fare affordability for passengers with the financial viability of transport operators, especially in times of volatile fuel markets and inflationary pressures.
The controversy also raises questions about the effectiveness of regulatory mechanisms in addressing the needs of public transport stakeholders. As Cebu's transport groups mobilize, the outcome of their protests could influence future policy decisions and fare adjustments across the region, potentially setting a precedent for other areas facing similar issues.
