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Transport group MANIBELA said it might request a temporary fare increase of Php 1 to Php 2 for public utility vehicles as fuel costs continue to rise due to the conflict in the Middle East.
MANIBELA Chairperson Mar Valbuena said the request would be a last resort if government support and tax relief are not provided.
Valbuena noted that pump prices could rise by as much as P15 per liter next week, prompting consideration of a provisional fare adjustment to help drivers cope.
Many PUV operators have reported losing between Php 400 and Php 500 in daily income following recent fuel price hikes, which increased by about Php 25 to Php 30 per liter over the past weeks.
Drivers have adjusted schedules to avoid competing for passengers, particularly during off-peak hours when ridership is low.
Valbuena also said the government’s Php 5,000 fuel subsidy is not sufficient to cover rising operational costs.
He raised concerns over challenges in accessing the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development, citing outdated beneficiary lists and short submission deadlines.
MANIBELA welcomed proposals to suspend excise taxes on fuel, which could lower diesel prices by around Php 6 per liter and gasoline by about Php 10 per liter, easing some of the burden on transport operators.
