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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Bantay pamasahe': PNP assists LTFRB vs illegal fare increases

'Bantay pamasahe': PNP assists LTFRB vs illegal fare increases

Published Mar 31, 2026 03:28 pm
Police teams will be keeping an eye on illegal fare hikes amid reports that some buses and other public utility vehicles (PUVs) are overcharging their passengers, citing rising fuel costs as the reason.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C Nartatez, Jr. said the move is intended to assist the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in running after illegal fare increase. 
“Our mandate extends to looking after the welfare of the riding public. We will ensure that rules and regulations are strictly followed as part of the PNP’s commitment to protect the commuters during these challenging times,” said Nartatez.
On Monday, the LTFRB summoned eight bus companies for unauthorized fare hikes, the complaints were raised by some passengers.
On the part of the PNP,  Nartatez warned operators not to take advantage of the volatile energy market as he emphasized that the police force will not limit its focus to traditional crime prevention.
To ensure the policy reaches the ground, the PNP is mobilizing its units to monitor terminals and transport hubs and strengthen the hotlines and even complaints coursed through the PNP’s social media accounts. 
This move comes as the administration assured drivers and transport workers of continued assistance and support. These subsidies aim to ease the burden of the continuing rise in petroleum prices.
He also called on the public to immediately report to authorities if they have information about bus firms implementing unauthorized fare increases. 
“We urge all our kababayan to report any incident of unauthorized fare increase. This must not be tolerated, otherwise, this will encourage others to do the same,” said Nartatez.
“Let us work together to put an end to this illegal practice by ensuring that those who deliberately ignore and violate the provisions of the franchise conditions are held accountable,” he added. 
Nartatez vowed that the police would work closely with other transport agencies to prevent these illegal acts on public transport. Joint inspections and random checks at checkpoints are expected to intensify in the coming days.

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PNP LTFRB fare hike oil price hike
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