MANILA – Higher fares for several public utility vehicles took effect Monday, Sept. 28, following adjustments approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.
Traditional jeepneys now charge a minimum fare of Php 14 for the first four kilometers, up by Php 1, while modern jeepney fares increased from Php 15 to Php 17. Succeeding kilometer rates are Php 2 and Php 2.40, respectively.
For city buses, the minimum ordinary fare rose from Php 13 to Php 15 for the first five kilometers, while air-conditioned buses now charge Php 18, up from Php 15. Provincial bus fares were also adjusted, with ordinary buses charging Php 12 for the first five kilometers.
Point-to-point bus services received a 15-percent increase in existing fares, while UV Express units have provisional rates of Php 2.60 per kilometer for traditional units and Php 3 for modern units.
Airport taxi flag-down rates posted the biggest base-fare increase, rising from Php 75 to Php 115 for the first 500 meters. Charges for every succeeding 300 meters and every two minutes remained unchanged.
Transport Network Vehicle Service fares also increased, with booking rates set at Php 65 for sedans, Php 75 for AUVs and SUVs, Php 55 for hatchbacks and Php 165 for premium vehicles. Pick-up charges were set at Php 15 per kilometer.
Fare petitions covering regular, premium silver and premium gold taxis remain pending before the LTFRB.
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the adjustments were necessary to help drivers and operators cope with higher operating costs and maintain sufficient public transportation.
The mandatory 20-percent discount for students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities remains in effect.
The LTFRB also required PUV operators to display their updated fare matrices inside their vehicles before collecting the new rates.
