Jeepney Fares Likely to Hit PHP15 As Transport Groups File for Hike

Piston is set to file a formal petition on March 16 for a 2-peso increase in jeepney fares. This move aims to set the new minimum fare at P15 to help drivers cope with the recent jump of PHP17 to PHP24 per liter in pump prices.

Drivers currently face a significant drop in their daily earnings due to these fuel costs. During a rally along East Avenue in Quezon City, Piston president Mody Floranda explained the math behind the struggle.

"At present, jeepney drivers can take home PHP400 to PHP500 after 12 to 18 hours on the road. With the oil price hike, they could lose PHP200 to PHP300," Floranda said.

How the 2-peso fare hike might affect daily earnings of Filipino commuters

^{Image credit: Piston: Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide}

The proposed increase is a survival measure for those behind the wheel. If Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) grants the provisional hike, it allows drivers to recover their losses through volume.

"If the provisional 2-peso fare increase is granted, we can earn PHP400 after PHP200 passengers in a day," Floranda added.

LTFRB chairman Vigor Mendoza confirmed that some form of provisional fare increase will be implemented, especially as diesel prices are projected to reach P80 per liter.

Also read: Only 60 Days of Oil Supply? What Travellers in the Philippines Should Know

Balancing fares with worker wages

^{Image credit: Piston PH Official Website}

While the transport group is pushing for higher fares, they are also calling for a significant increase in the minimum wage to help the riding public. Floranda underscored that the fare hike should be coupled with "raising the minimum wage of Filipino workers to PHP1,200 to afford higher transportation costs."

As the economic pressure builds, the government is looking for legislative solutions. Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro noted that during a visit to the United States, President Marcos indicated he will ask Congress to grant him emergency powers to address the situation.

If you take the jeepney daily, you should prepare for a PHP15 minimum fare starting next week. This adds P4 to your daily round-trip expenses. It is best to start settting aside extra change now to avoid delays during your morning rush.

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