Palace Assures Of Reasonable Minimum Fare For Commuters

Amid calls for a reduction in the Php 7.50 minimum fare, Malacañang on Tuesday expressed confidence that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) would come up with a reasonable fare for commuters.

“Makatitiyak tayo na ang pagpapasya ng LTFRB ay tungo sa pagkakaroon ng makatuwirang pagsingil sa pamasahe,” Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said during a media briefing at the Palace.

According to reports, commuters have called for a lower minimum fare due to the consecutive rollbacks in fuel prices but transport groups do not welcome the call.

Oil companies on Monday announced another price rollback, with gasoline and diesel prices dropping by P1 and P1.45 per liter respectively, owing to low world oil prices.

Coloma said the LTFRB would conduct public hearings regarding proposals to reduce public utility vehicle fares.

“Iyan ang tutukuyin ng LTFRB. Tumutupad sila sa kanilang tungkulin na tiyakin na ang singil sa pampublikong mga transportasyon ay makatuwiran at makatarungan kaya’t nagdaraos sila ng mga public hearings na kung saan tatanggap sila ng petisyon mula sa mga mamamayan at didinggin din ang panig ng mga affected transport operators,” he said.

Chair of the LTFRB, Winston Ginez, said the board would try to find a win-win solution for both commuters and public utility vehicle operators.(PNA) RMA/PND/EDS