Noy: MRT-LRT fare hike critics only want to boost their image

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III on Friday hit back at critics of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) fare hikes who offer no solution.

In a media interview in Romblon aired over state-run People's Television, Aquino maintained that the fare increases are aimed at improving the services of the train systems.

Some of those who oppose the fare hikes, Aquino said, may be only seeking to boost their public image by siding with the commuting public.

"Siyempre ang gandang magpapogi ngayon: 'Kontra ako sa increase!' Lahat naman tayo ayaw naman nating tumaas ang bilihin. Pero iyon ang totoo," he said.

Aquino said he is willing to listen to the critics if they propose better solutions.

"Pero kung puro reklamo at wala namang solusyon na inihahain, talagang nagpapa-cute lang sila at wala silang hilig na magkaroon ng solusyon sa problema," he said.

In his State of the Nation Address in 2013, Aquino justified the need to raise the train fares and lower their subsidies.

"Perhaps it is only reasonable for us to move the fares of the MRT and LRT closer to the fares of air-conditioned buses, so that the government subsidy for the MRT and LRT can be used for other social services," Aquino said.

The fare hikes met strong opposition from various groups and even lawmakers, including Sen. Bongbong Marcos who urged Aquino to suspend the fare increases.