Provincial and city bus operators are calling on the Marcos administration to lift the suspension of a previously approved fare adjustment, saying rising operating costs are putting pressure on the public transport industry.
In an appeal signed by several bus industry groups, the operators asked the government to allow a “fair and sustainable fare” that reflects the actual cost of providing public transportation.
The groups said fuel now accounts for about 45% to 60% of their operating costs. They also cited expenses for toll fees, spare parts, tires, maintenance and insurance.
The operators said provincial and city buses cannot independently impose fuel surcharges because their fares are regulated. They contrasted this with airlines and sea transport operators, which they said can impose fuel surcharges in response to extraordinary fuel price increases.
The appeal also cited value-added tax on fuel as another cost for bus operators, noting that passenger fares are not subject to VAT.
The groups said operators were also required to modernize their fleets, prompting investments in new buses and loans to finance compliance.
They added that an impending wage increase could create additional financial pressure on operators, while acknowledging that employees deserve fair compensation.
The operators stressed that they are not asking for government aid or taxpayer support. Instead, they are seeking the implementation of the fare adjustment order approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on March 14, 2026, which remains suspended.
They warned that continued operations under fares they say are below actual costs could eventually make some services financially unsustainable.
The groups said reduced bus operations could result in fewer buses, fewer trips and longer waiting times for passengers, while also affecting drivers, conductors, mechanics and other transport workers.
