Bus operator groups petition for fare increase, cite excise taxes, toll fees

BUS OPERATOR groups have filed for a petition for a fare increase.

The Southern Luzon Bus Operators Association, the Nagkakaisang Samahan ng Nangangasiwa ng Panlalawigang Bus sa Pilipinas, and the Samahang Bus Transport Operators filed yesterday before the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) a petition for fare increase, citing increase in excise taxes in fuel, prices of spare parts, and toll fees.

In Metro Manila, from a P10 minimum fare for non-airconditioned buses, the petitioners are requesting a P13.30 minimum fare and P2.45 for every succeeding kilometer. For air-conditioned buses, operators are seeking an adjustment of P12 to P15.95 minimum for the fare increase, and P2.95 for every succeeding kilometer.

Provincial bus drivers are asking for a minimum fare of P11.95 from the current P9 for ordinary buses.

“That foregoing increases in operational costs, attendant to the business of public mass transportation have effectively negated the previous fare adjustments granted and have rendered subject business non-viable, thus threatening the very survival of petitionersmembers,” the petition read.

The petitioners also requested a provisional fare increase pending a decision by the LTFRB.

Board Member Aileen Lourdes A. Lizada said a hearing on the petition has yet to be scheduled. — with