President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday announced the suspension of a planned fare increase for public utility vehicles that was supposed to take effect on March 19.
The announcement came a day after the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board approved a fare hike covering jeepneys, buses, airport taxis and transport network vehicle services.
Marcos said the timing was not appropriate due to ongoing challenges linked to the conflict in the Middle East, which continues to affect fuel prices.
As a result, the President directed the Department of Transportation to postpone the implementation of the fare increase.
He emphasized the need to prioritize commuters, including workers, students and others who rely daily on public transportation.
To address the situation, Marcos assured that the government would expand and accelerate the release of cash and fuel subsidies. These measures aim to help drivers and operators cope with losses caused by rising oil prices.
In addition, the President ordered the rollout of a nationwide free ride program.
The government, he said, is working to ensure that the public feels little to no impact from the ongoing crisis abroad.
With the directive in place, the planned fare hike will not push through as scheduled. Existing fare rates will remain in effect while authorities prepare for the implementation of the “Libre Sakay” program.
The Department of Transportation is expected to carry out the President’s instructions and coordinate with concerned agencies to implement the assistance measures.
Officials reiterated that the move is part of broader efforts to maintain stability in the transport sector while easing the burden on commuters during a period of global uncertainty.
