The Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) should take into the consideration the welfare of the commuting public when deciding on the petition of transportation groups for a temporary jeepney fare increase.

“While we recognize that jeepney drivers and operators are burdened by rising global oil prices, the LTFRB must ensure that any fare increase takes into consideration the welfare of the commuting public,” Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian said in a statement.

“Any significant fare increase would reduce disposable income of the underprivileged on other basic necessities such as food, healthcare, decent shelter, and education,” the senator said.

The LTFRB said it will come out with a resolution on the petition by transport groups led by the Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Associatioin of the Philippines (ALTODAP) by April.

The group had sought a P2 provisional fare increase amid the rising cost of fuel.

Should the LTFRB grant the petition, the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys would go up from P13 to P15, while modern jeepney fares would increase from the current P15 to P17.

Gatchalian, however, cautioned transportation authorities on approving any fare hike: “As it is, many consumers are still reeling from high food prices.”

“Any fare hike could dampen consumer spending and the economy down the line,” he added.

“Mahalaga ang bawat piso sa mga kababayan nating mahihirap at inaasahan nating isasaalang-alang ng LFTRB ang bawat panig sa anumang desisyon nito (Every peso is important to our poor countrymen and we hope that the LFTRB will consider every side in any decision it makes),” he said.