Buses to raise fares starting March 25

CEBU, Philippines -Bus and mini-bus operators in Cebu Province will implement a fare hike effective March 25.

The Cebu Provincial Bus Operators Association and the Cebu United Mini-Bus Operators Association signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) yesterday upon the initiative of Governor Gwendolyn Garcia.

The agreement states the minimum fare of P6 for the first five kilometers and additional P1.20 per succeeding kilometer, which is still less than the P1.40-authorized by LTFRB.

Aside from the MOA, the bus operators also signed an application for provisional fare reduction of what is duly authorized by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in 2008.

LTFRB 7 Director Ahmed Cuizon said their Manila office was surprised to know when he reported the request for reduction, as other areas are petitioning for fare increase.

Cuizon explained that Cebu is different.

While other operators are clamoring for fare increase due to high cost of fuel and maintenance, some buses here even impose rates that are much lower than P1 per succeeding kilometer.

One of those undercharging is Ceres Bus Lines which has the most number of units plying different routes in the province.

Garcia was prompted to intervene when the LTFRB announced that bus and mini-bus operators can collect the exact fare using the approved fare matrix, which has not been followed.

CPBOA president Richard Corominas hopes all members will abide by the agreement and urged LTFRB to monitor.

CUMBOA president Julito Flores also commends all the members for being united in addressing their concerns and the riding public.

Anselmo Ambos of Ceres Bus Lines assured of their support as they signed the agreement.

Garcia assured that the fare for south-bound buses can be monitored as passengers pay their fares before boarding, along with the terminal fee at the Cebu South Bus Terminal, which is under the management of the Province.

Garcia hopes buses in the north bus terminal will also follow even if the Provincial Government cannot monitor them. —(FREEMAN)