Jeepney operators file fare hike petition

Jeepney operators all over the country filed a consolidated petition yesterday, asking for a P1.50 fare hike nationwide to cope with rising prices of oil in the world market.

Lawyer Vigor Mendoza, chairman of the United Transport Coalition (1Utak), led leaders of seven jeepney operators’ associations in filing the petition before the office of Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairman Thompson Lantion.

“We are seeking a minimum increase of P 1.50 on top of the P 7.50 fare approved by the LTFRB,” Mendoza said.

In their petition, the jeepney operators are also seeking the immediate return of the 50-centavo discount they offered to the riding public last year.

Lantion received the petition and assured the operators that the LTFRB will take the necessary action on the petition.

He said the petition will undergo the regular process, including a public hearing, before it can be implemented. Transport groups expect their petition to be approved before Christmas.

If the LTFRB approves the petition, the minimum jeepney fare would be P8 for the first four kilometers.

Mendoza said the bus operators will also file their respective fare hike petitions next week. – Perseus Echeminada