Amidst rising commodity prices, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) green-lights a fare hike on several modes of public transportation in response to increasing gas prices, adding a burden to millions of Filipino commuters.
The fare hike that will take effect on October 4 includes additional new rates per kilometer, a P12 minimum fare on traditional jeepneys, and increased base fares on buses, taxis, and Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS).
Even though the base fare on public utility vehicles only sees a slight increase, it might create even more problems. Aside from regular commuters spending a bit more on transportation, commodity prices may also increase. Business owners using PUVs to transport their products might impose higher prices due to higher costs. Besides, almost everything in the market increased in price due to inflation. When transportation costs increase too, many Filipinos will not have enough financial resources to satisfy their needs.
It is understandable that PUV drivers also need additional income to cope with the increasing price of gasoline and commodities. However, it does not seem right to pass the burden to commuters who also want to meet their needs and pay their bills.
With soaring inflation and now an additional base fare on public utility vehicles, the government needs to act. They should try to reduce gas prices first so that prices of other commodities will follow. It is not right that the general public suffers from the continuous price hike. However, it is just right for the government not to let the people suffer.
