Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi King-Chan Urges Public to Report Unauthorized Fare Hikes
In response to escalating fuel prices, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan has issued a strong appeal to the public, urging commuters to report any van-for-hire (V-hire) or bus drivers who are implementing fare increases without official authorization. The mayor emphasized that such actions are illegal and detrimental to passengers, who are already facing economic pressures.
Call for Commuter Vigilance
Commuters are encouraged to actively participate in monitoring compliance by submitting the plate numbers of vehicles that violate fare regulations. This information will enable local authorities to take swift and appropriate action against offenders. Mayor King-Chan stressed that transport operators must strictly adhere to legal procedures and await an official tariff adjustment from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) before raising fares.
The announcement comes amid growing reports that some public utility vehicles have already increased fares, despite the absence of an approved adjustment from the LTFRB. While acknowledging that rising fuel costs may eventually necessitate fare adjustments, the mayor made it clear that proper channels must be followed to protect commuters from undue hardship.
Emphasis on Legal Procedures
In a statement, Mayor King-Chan highlighted the importance of following established protocols, stating, "It's not right to raise fares before there's an approved rate because the commuters would really suffer." She reminded all stakeholders that only the LTFRB has the authority to approve and implement fare increases, and operators must wait for the official tariff issuance to avoid penalties.
The mayor reiterated her call for commuters to report any instances of unauthorized fare hikes, reinforcing that such vigilance is crucial for maintaining fair and regulated public transportation services. This proactive approach aims to ensure that any necessary adjustments are made transparently and in accordance with the law, safeguarding the interests of both passengers and operators during this period of economic uncertainty.
