TOP officials of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), led by Chairman Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, are set to meet with leaders from at least seven major transport groups on Monday, August 3, at 9:00 AM to review pending fare hike petitions across various public utility vehicle (PUV) sectors.
The hearing follows a directive from Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Z. Lopez instructing the regulatory body to re-evaluate and recompute requested fare adjustments in light of recent economic factors.
“The goal has always been to come up with the best measures that are acceptable not only to the PUV community but also to all the concerned sectors, particularly the commuters, because of the continuous challenge that we face as a result of the situation in the Middle East,” Chairman Mendoza stated.
Mendoza added that the initiative demonstrates the national government’s responsiveness to the valid concerns of the public land transportation sector.
The scheduled session encompasses almost all modes of land transportation in the country.
Representative groups attending include PISTON and Manibela for traditional public utility jeepneys, alongside the Metro Comet Transport Service Cooperative, 997 Sandigan Transport Cooperative, and the UV Express National Alliance of the Philippines for UV Express units.
Additionally, Metro Comet and Light of Glory Transport Service, Inc. will represent air-conditioned taxis, while the United Transportation Coalition of the Philippines will represent motorcycle taxi operators.
All participating organizations filed their respective fare adjustment petitions with the Board between March and July of this year.
While direct invitations have already been issued to these key groups, the LTFRB clarified that the hearing remains open to other transport associations, government entities, and public stakeholders.
The LTFRB emphasized that the proceedings aim to formalize the submission of evidence, comments, and positions from all interested parties.
Members of the public and consumer advocacy groups wishing to raise objections or feedback are encouraged to submit written position papers and supporting documentation in line with official board protocols.
Mendoza assured the public that the agency will maintain impartiality to reach a balanced resolution.
