LTFRB: No new PUV fare hike approved, study pending

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has clarified that it has not yet approved a new fare increase for public utility vehicles (PUVs), pending an ongoing study by the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev).

Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III emphasized in a statement on Friday that no decision has been made regarding fare adjustments.

Guadiz said any changes to current rates will depend on DEPDev's analysis and expert recommendations, stressing the need for careful consideration of economic conditions.

Transport groups have proposed fare increases due to rising fuel prices driven by global supply disruptions from conflicts in Ukraine-Russia and Israel-Iran.

Despite pressures from operators, Guadiz acknowledged that any fare increase would be burdensome for commuters but stressed the importance of sustaining jeepney operations amid soaring oil costs.