MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is set to announce a new fare increase for jeepneys and buses on Tuesday, following the continued rise in global oil prices.

According to LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza, the agency has already approved the fare adjustment, though the **exact amount of the increase will be finalized and officially announced after consultations with Giovanni Lopez, Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

“Sigurado na po ang pagtataas. Ang halaga po nito ay kailangan pa naming ipaliwanag kay DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez bukas,” Mendoza said.

The upcoming adjustment will cover all previously filed fare hike petitions, particularly those involving public utility jeepneys and buses. Transport groups had earlier requested fare increases to help offset the rising cost of fuel and operational expenses.

However, the LTFRB clarified that taxis and UV Express vehicles will not be included in Tuesday’s announcement. Their petitions were only recently approved and will still need to undergo further processes, including public hearings and a nationwide consultation, before any fare adjustment can be implemented.

The development comes as fuel prices continue to fluctuate due to global market pressures, affecting both transport operators and commuters across the Philippines. While drivers and operators argue that fare adjustments are necessary to sustain their livelihood, many passengers worry about the added burden on daily transportation expenses.

For millions of Filipinos who rely on jeepneys and buses for everyday travel, even small fare increases can significantly impact household budgets, particularly amid broader concerns about inflation and the rising cost of basic goods.

As authorities prepare to reveal the final fare rates, a key question emerges: How can the government balance the financial needs of transport operators while protecting commuters from the growing cost of daily travel?

(Larawan mula sa: Wikipedia)