By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Federation of Bacolod City Drivers Association (Febacda) called the attention of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), demanding fare hikes in light of the implementation of an excise tax on oil and fuel products resulting from the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law.

Febacda President Elizabeth Katalbas said their group already submitted a petition for the fare increase, seeking a regular P8 fare.

She also said the group is bracing for the jeepney modernization program, which is due to be implemented this year. Under the modernization program, all 30-year-old jeepneys will be phased out and replaced by more fuel efficient vehicles.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is scheduled to release several types of new environmentally-friendly jeepneys this month./DGB, WDJ