Malacañang defended the amount of the approved fare increase for public utility vehicles (PUVs) amid continued increases in fuel prices.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government recognized the additional expenses faced by drivers and operators, which led to the approval of the fare hike.
However, Castro said the approved increase was lower than the amount requested by the transport sector.
She explained that the government needed to balance the interests of drivers and operators with the additional expenses that commuters would have to pay.
The fare adjustment took effect Monday for traditional and modern jeepneys, with fares increasing by ₱1 to ₱2.
Castro also assured that fuel subsidies for PUV drivers and operators would continue despite the implementation of the fare increase.
The subsidy will remain available to help drivers and operators cope with fuel-related expenses.
Malacañang said the approved fare adjustment takes into account the higher operating costs of the transport sector while considering the impact of increased fares on commuters.
The new rates now apply to passengers using traditional and modern jeepneys.
The fare hike comes as fuel prices continue to rise, increasing the operating expenses of public transport drivers and operators.
