By Marlene Sayat
Transport groups from across the public land transportation have expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. for fully understanding their concerns through a fare increase which they said is a long-term solution to address the adverse effects of oil price hikes to their daily operational costs.
The land public transportation sector has been bleeding since the first big-time oil price hikes as a result of the Middle East tensions and President Marcos’ intervention has just saved it from further spending 45% to 60% in operational costs as a result of a series of oil price hikes.
“The fare adjustment provides essential support for operators to continue dispatching safe and roadworthy buses, maintain routes, protect jobs and serve communities throughout the country,” the statement of three major bus operator groups read.
“We sincerely thank His Excellency President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, DOTr Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez, LTFRB Acting Chair Atty. Greg G. Pua Jr. and the Board Members and all those who listened with fairness and compassion to the challenges facing the bus industry,” it added.
The statement was signed by leaders of the Provincial Bus Operators Association of the Philippines, Southern Luzon Bus Operators Association, and Mega Manila Consortium.
Major transport groups earlier urged President Marcos for immediate long-term assistance after another big-time oil price hike was effected last week.
They said that while they appreciate assistance packages such as P12 per liter fuel subsidy and three-month cash assistance to modern public transportation operators, the coverage is limited and does not actually solve the real issue of long-term effects to the drivers and operators.
Following the appeal, President Marcos directed Secretary Banoy to look into the matter and come up with the best solution that balances commuter protection and the interest of those in the PUV sector.
Secretary Banoy, for his part, directed the LTFRB to study the concerns raised by the transport sector, including the review of all the arguments raised during public consultation and all the analyses relating to fare hike.
Acting Chairman Pua immediately complied and on September 25, Secretary Banoy gave the go signal to the recommendation to implement the March 2026 fare hike.
“The LTFRB has weighed the interests of the commuting public against what it now costs to keep units on the road. Government interventions remain the preferred way to cushion those costs, and the Board continues to support them. A measured fare adjustment complements those efforts and directs public resources where they are needed most,” the LTFRB recommendation signed by Acting Chairman Pua read.
“In view of the foregoing, and considering the continuing volatility of fuel prices, implementing the previously approved fare adjustments is necessary to balance commuters’ interests with the need to maintain a viable and dependable public transportation system,” it added.
The transport groups said the immediate action by President Marcos, Secretary Banoy and Acting Chairman Pua only proved the power of respectful dialogue and communication between the transport sector and the national government.
“This experience affirms our belief that respectful communication among Government, industry and the public can create hope and lead to meaningful change. We are grateful that our situation was heard and considered, and we accept the decision with humility,” the transport groups said.
The transport groups sought for understanding from millions of Filipino commuters when they fought for fare increase, saying their action is for their survival and efficient operations.
“We also recognize that any increase in fares is an additional burden on our passengers, especially at a time when every Filipino family is managing a higher cost of living. We understand your concern, and we do not take this adjustment—or your continued trust—for granted. It is not a reason for celebration, but a necessary measure to help preserve the public transport service on which millions of Filipinos depend on,” the groups said.
“The adjustment strengthens our duty to provide safe buses, responsible and courteous crews, dependable trips, proper maintenance and better passenger service. We know that gratitude must be demonstrated not only through words, but through the quality of service we deliver every day,” they added.
