Davao City Government Evaluates Public Transport Fare Adjustment Proposal
The Davao City Transport and Traffic Management Board (CTTMB) is currently conducting a thorough evaluation of a proposed increase in public transportation fares. This critical decision requires officials to carefully balance the financial requirements of transport operators with the economic capacity of daily commuters.
Balancing Operator Needs and Public Burden
The proposal emerges against a backdrop of general increases in the cost of basic goods and services throughout the region. City officials openly acknowledge that any upward adjustment in transportation costs could impose a significant additional burden on the public, many of whom are already struggling with persistent inflationary pressures.
While transport operators have formally petitioned for higher rates to offset their operational expenses, Councilor Luna Acosta has asserted that the final approved increase may not reach the levels initially requested. "There might be a slight increase in the fare, but it won't be that high," she stated during recent discussions.
Specific Fare Proposals Under Consideration
The councilor specifically addressed concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing a P20 minimum fare. Should that amount prove too burdensome for the general public, Acosta noted that a smaller adjustment represents a more practical alternative.
"If 20 pesos is really not feasible, perhaps 15 is possible, at least a five-peso increase. That is something that we can consider," Acosta explained. She added that a definitive timeframe for implementing any new rates has not yet been established, as the evaluation process continues.
Transport Alliance Advocates for Higher Rates
Earlier this year, the Tricycle Alliance of Davao City had been actively pushing to double the minimum fare from P10 to P20. The alliance cited rising fuel costs linked to ongoing Middle East conflicts that have substantially cut into drivers' earnings and made it increasingly difficult for operators to keep up with basic expenses.
This alliance, composed of 57 Toda presidents from District 2, formally raised their proposal during a March 24, 2025, council session specifically addressing fuel price concerns. The group seeks a P20 base fare for the first kilometer traveled, with an additional P5 charged per subsequent kilometer, while maintaining the existing 20 percent discount for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and students.
Commuters Express Concerns Over Proposed Increases
However, numerous commuters have raised serious concerns regarding the proposed fare hike, arguing that a doubling of the minimum fare would place excessive strain on daily household budgets. Several community members have suggested that P15 represents a more acceptable and manageable rate increase.
Councilor Acosta emphasized the importance of balancing operator needs with the impact on students and workers who would be most affected by any fare adjustment. She noted that while registered drivers currently follow the P10 minimum fare, illegal or unregistered operators often charge more than P20, creating an uneven playing field that a standardized fare structure could potentially address.
