LTFRB Approves Provisional Fare Hike for Provincial Buses Amid Oil Price Surge
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has granted a provisional fare increase for provincial public utility buses, responding to a series of significant oil price hikes driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This decision, announced on Sunday, March 15, 2026, aims to alleviate the financial strain on bus operators facing escalating fuel costs.
New Fare Matrix Details
The updated fare matrix, released by the LTFRB, applies to several categories of provincial buses, including ordinary, regular aircon, deluxe, super deluxe, and luxury services. Each category features specific adjustments to base fares and per-kilometer rates.
- Ordinary Provincial Buses: The base fare has been increased by P1, with an additional P0.30 per succeeding kilometer. The minimum fare for the first five kilometers is now set at P12, and succeeding kilometers are charged at P2.20 per kilometer.
- Deluxe Buses: A provisional increase of P0.35 per kilometer has been approved, resulting in a fare computation of P2.60 per kilometer for regular passengers.
- Luxury Bus Services: These will see a higher adjustment, with a P0.45 per kilometer increase, bringing the updated rate to P3.35 per kilometer for regular passengers.
- Super Deluxe Buses: The fare for the first five kilometers is now P13.50, with every succeeding kilometer at P2.70.
- Regular Aircon PUBs: The base fare will amount to P12.25, with an additional P2.45 for every succeeding kilometer.
Discounts and Future Updates
The LTFRB has confirmed that a 20 percent discount for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and students will continue to apply daily, including weekends and holidays. This measure ensures that vulnerable groups remain protected despite the fare adjustments.
Additionally, the agency is expected to release a new fare matrix for public utility jeepneys within the week, indicating further updates to public transportation pricing in response to economic pressures.
This provisional fare increase reflects the broader impact of global events on local economies, as Middle East conflicts disrupt oil supplies and drive up fuel costs. The LTFRB's decision seeks to balance the needs of bus operators with affordability for passengers, amidst ongoing challenges in the transportation sector.
