Jeepney Drivers Pin Hopes on Provisional Fare Hike Amid Rising Diesel Prices

Jeepney drivers are anxiously awaiting a decision on the proposed P1 provisional fare hike as diesel prices surged in the first week of October. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is expected to announce its decision this week.

Expressing optimism, Pasang Masda president Robert “Ka Obet” Martin stated in a TeleRadyo Serbisyo interview, “Very positive po kami na maibibigay ang provisional increase na P1” (We are very positive that the P1 provisional increase will be granted). He added that the provisional fare hike could potentially be implemented as early as Friday this week or early next week.

However, STOP & GO national president Zaldy Ping Ay expressed dissatisfaction, deeming the P1 provisional fare increase insufficient, especially considering a Department of Energy report forecasting high diesel prices until December. Ay emphasized that drivers are incurring daily losses averaging P507 due to recent pump price increases, advocating for a higher P2 provisional jeepney fare hike.

Jeepney operators are urging for a nationwide provisional fare increase, highlighting the impact of soaring pump prices beyond Metro Manila. In response to Tuesday’s P0.40/liter diesel price hike and a P2/liter drop in gasoline prices, Martin criticized oil companies, asserting that the increases far outweigh the cuts.

Both transport leaders rejected the possibility of a transport strike if the fare hike petition is not approved. Martin emphasized, “Hindi solusyon ang tigil-pasada sa panahon na ito dahil ayaw natin mahirapan ang taumbayan” (A strike is not a solution during these times because we don’t want the public to suffer), suggesting that strikes should only be considered as a last resort. The uncertainty looms as jeepney drivers navigate the challenges posed by fluctuating fuel prices.