PUJs answer fare rollback proposal with strike threats

Drivers and operators of public utility jeepneys have threatened to stage a Metro Manila-wide transport strike if the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) pushes through with a plan to have a 50-centavo rollback in the minimum fare starting Valentine’s Day.

In a statement issued the other day, the Philippine Confederation of Drivers and Operators-Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations (PCDO-ACTO) president Efren de Luna said as its operators and drivers cannot cope with the rising prices.

De Luna said that with the implementation of the Reformed Value Added Tax (RVAT), prices of spare parts would surely double.

Some jeepney drivers can barely earn enough to take home to their families because of the high cost of fuel products.         

De Luna said that even though LTFRB chief Elena  Bautista has announced no fare increase would be granted due to the RVAT, they will still file a petition to for a P2 increase in minimum fare.

For its part, the Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) expressed concern over the government’s plan to roll back the minimum fare, which stands at P7.50.

PISTON spokesman George San Mateo said the plan of LTFRB to cut the fare by 50 centavos must not push "since it does not have any basis."

San Mateo said that while they can accept the decision of the LTFRB to defer any fare increase, a 50-centavo cut in the minimum fare is "simply absurd."

"Payag kami kahit walang fare hike. Pero kung magbaba ng 50 sentimos ang pasahe ay hindi na makatarungan iyon," he said.

Bus operators also criticized the government for having the additional cost in driver’s license renewals and vehicle registration due to RVAT.

Intercity Bus Operators Association (INTER-BOA) president Elena Ong said the adjustment in registration and licensing fees was unjustified as this should have first undergone a public hearing.

Because of the sudden increase, the group, together with 14 other public utility bus groups, will hold a meeting to determine if they are going to demand a fare increase due to RVAT.

Ong said they are now feeling the brunt of the price increase in fuel, spare parts and maintenance costs of their units.

The license fee reportedly increased by 96 centavos, while the car registration fee increased by P2.40. – Sandy Araneta