The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Region VI (LTFRB-6) recently approved petitions presented by the Iloilo City Loop Alliance of Jeepney Owners and Drivers Association (ICLAJODA), the Iloilo City Alliance of Drivers Association (ICADA), and the Confederation of Iloilo Provincial Jeepney Owners and Drivers Association (CIPJODA) demanding higher fares amid implementation of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law.

LTFRB-6 Director Richard Osmeña said fares will be increased from P6.50 to P10. However, according to reports, the groups were looking to nearly double rates, seeking fares of P12, an increase of P5.50.

Although, Osmeña noted, formal approval from the central office may not be validated until after March.

Meanwhile, local transport group, the United Negros Drivers and Operators Center (UNDOC), earlier demanded a P6 discount on fuel for all public utility vehicles (PUVs) instead of asking for a fare hike.

UNDOC Secretary-General Diego Malacad said their group supports the call by Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston), which is pushing for the said discount.

Malacad explained the move is being pursued instead of “burdening” passengers with higher fares./PLL, WDJ