TNVS communities say new base fares 'vital' for survival
Published Mar 17, 2026 09:32 pm
The country’s top organizations of transport network vehicle service (TNVS) operators and drivers have welcomed the government’s move to adjust base fares to mitigate the impact of rising fuel and operating costs.
In a statement, the TNVS Community Philippines (TCP) said the decision of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to grant the adjustment would cushion the impact of the Middle East crisis on TNVS drivers.
“This decision is a vital recognition of the challenges faced by ordinary drivers and operators in today’s volatile economic climate,” said TCP spokesperson Walter Lugay.
Under the new fare matrix set by the LTFRB, the TNVS base fare will rise by ₱20, while the per-kilometer pick-up fare will increase by ₱15.
This will bring the new base fare for sedans to ₱65 from ₱45; ₱75 from ₱55 for Asian utility vehicles (AUVs); ₱55 from ₱35 for hatchbacks; and ₱165 from ₱145 for premium TNVS.
There will be no increases in the per-kilometer and per-minute travel time charges for TNVS, according to the LTFRB.
Lugay said the fare increase would mark the first change to the TNVS fare structure since 2019, despite oil pump price hikes even before the Middle East conflict erupted last month.
Through this adjustment, he said it would serve as a “lifeline” to prevent drivers from leaving the service altogether because of unsustainable operating costs.
He added that this would also help ensure that vehicles remain roadworthy and safe for passengers, while supporting the continued delivery of reliable service to the riding public.
“We remain committed to providing safe, reliable, and high-quality service, serving as partners with the government and the public in keeping our transport system stable and dependable,” said Lugay.
The United Transportation Coalition Philippines Inc. (UTCP), which represents the full spectrum of the country’s road transport systems, said the LTFRB’s move reflects the government’s recognition of the challenges faced by transport workers every day.
UTCP said it will continue to monitor market developments and their impact on transport professionals nationwide.
“At the same time, we remain open and proactive in engaging the relevant government agencies to help ensure that every measure responds to the real conditions on the road and helps sustain a fair and humane livelihood for every driver,” the group said.