The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will submit this week its recommendation to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) regarding a petition for higher fares in Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs).
LTFRB Chairman Atty. Vigor Mendoza II confirmed the move after a public consultation on Wednesday, November 12. He noted that the board is still considering whether the fare increase should apply to all types of public transport simultaneously.
Mendoza emphasized the importance of dialogue with transport operators, drivers, and commuters to explore alternative solutions that would not immediately lead to higher fares. The LTFRB is finalizing reports from various regions before sending the official recommendation to DOTr.
Meanwhile, Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP) urged the government to release the allocated fuel subsidy instead of raising fares.
According to LCSP president Atty. Ariel Inton, there is a ₱2.5-billion fund under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA) for assistance to PUV drivers, taxi and tricycle drivers, as well as those in ride-hailing and delivery services.
He recalled that in June 2025, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued a certification to pave the way for fuel subsidy distribution. However, the release was postponed after global oil prices fell following eased tensions between Iran and Israel.