The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced on Friday, December 5, 2025, that it has decided against implementing a fare increase for both traditional and modern public utility jeepneys (PUVs). This decision comes in the wake of a substantial rollback in diesel prices, which has eased pressure on transport operators.
Economic Recovery and Inflation Concerns Drive Decision
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez stated that the timing for a fare adjustment is not appropriate. A proposed increase of P1 to P2 in the minimum fare was under consideration, which would have raised the base rate from P13 to up to P15 for traditional jeepneys and from P15 to up to P17 for modern units.
Secretary Lopez emphasized the broader economic impact, noting that many provinces are still in the process of recovering from recent major calamities, including powerful earthquakes and typhoons. He warned that a fare hike would not only burden commuters but could also contribute to rising prices for basic goods.
This position is supported by a study from the Department of Economy, Planning and Development. The study projected that a P1 to P2 base fare hike for jeepneys would elevate the country's inflation rate over the next two years.
Regions and Operators Express Opposition
LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza revealed that significant opposition to the fare increase exists in five key regions. These include Central Luzon, Calabarzon, the Bicol Region, Central Visayas, and Metro Manila—three of which are among the most populous in the Philippines.
Furthermore, dialogues with transport groups and an LTFRB study indicated that many PUV operators themselves are having second thoughts about pushing for higher fares, considering the current economic climate.
Cracking Down on Colorum Operations to Protect Legitimate Drivers
To help secure sufficient earnings for legitimate PUV drivers and operators without a fare hike, the government is intensifying its campaign against illegal transport operations. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the LTFRB, in partnership with the Department of Justice and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, have established an Anti-Colorum Task Force.
This task force aims to pursue individuals and groups behind unregistered or "colorum" PUVs. An LTFRB study estimates that these illegal operations siphon off as much as 30 percent of the potential income of legitimate PUV drivers and operators.
"We will chase and catch everyone involved in these illegal operations. The DOTr and the LTFRB will not stop in our pursuit for the sake of legitimate PUV drivers and commuters who rely on them," Secretary Lopez declared.
Chairman Mendoza also issued a call to unregistered transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers and operators, urging them to legalize their status. He pointed to the 17,000 available registration slots for TNVS as a golden opportunity to operate legally without fear of penalties.
"This is your chance to turn your back to illegal activities. We assure you there will be a fair and quick process. This is better than living in fear of getting caught, jailed and fined," Mendoza stated.
