By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Region 6 (LTFRB-6) recently raised standard fare in Western Visayas to P9.

LTFRB-6 Director Richard Osmeña said the P2.50 hike in regular fares will help public utility vehicle operators who experienced a number of oil price hikes, along with the effects of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law.

Federation of Bacolod City Driver’s Association (Febacda) President Elizabeth Katalbas, however, pointed out, even though the regional office has approved the fare hike, drivers are still unable to implement them as it is still subject to a final nod from the LTFRB central office in Manila.

After approval, the LTFRB central office makes the official announcement and proceeds to release official tariffs.

Katalbas expects the announcement sometime next month.

Meanwhile, the association head said drivers must still adhere to the present regular fare of P6.50.

Earlier this year, Febacda submitted a petition before the LTFRB, which sought a regular fare increase to P8 in response to the TRAIN Law./DGB, WDJ