The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has approved a provisional fare increase for provincial public utility buses (PUBs) and jeepneys, effective March 14, 2026. The agency announced the decision on March 13, 2026, and will release specific fare amounts on Tuesday, March 16, 2026.

Fare Hike Details to Be Released Soon

According to LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza, the fare increase is confirmed, but the exact amount is still under review. The agency is working to justify the increase to Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez. This announcement follows several petitions for fare adjustments from various transport groups.

“Yung pagtataas, sigurado na po yun. Yung amount, ayan ang kailangan pa namin i-justify kay DOTR Secretary Giovanni Lopez (bukas),” Mendoza said, as quoted in a GMA Integrated News report. This indicates the final fare adjustments are awaiting approval from the DOTr secretary.

The LTFRB is also considering the potential impact of the fare hike on inflation. They aim to strike a balance between providing relief to public transport operators and minimizing the burden on commuters.

“Hindi naman natin kayang lubohin yan, lakihan na napakalaki dahil mahihirapan masyado ‘yung ating mga mananakay. Tapos, we also coordinate with other government agencies ‘yung impact on inflation. Ayaw nating mag tumaas masyado ang ating mga bilihin dahil sa ating gagawin,” Mendoza stated.

Scope of the Fare Increase

The approved fare increase will apply to all public utility vehicles (PUVs) that previously filed petitions, including jeepneys and buses. However, the announcement on Tuesday will not include fare adjustments for taxis and UV Express services. Petitions for these modes of transport are still undergoing hearings and a nationwide consultation program, according to the LTFRB.

Reactions from Transport Groups

Melencio Vargas, president of the Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (ALTODAP), acknowledged the difficult circumstances faced by jeepney drivers. Speaking to Super Radyo dzBB, Vargas emphasized the need for drivers to continue operations to sustain their livelihoods, especially considering that many are senior citizens with limited educational opportunities.

“Kami ay magtitiis talaga. Makapag-uwi kami ng 300 to 400 pesos, kahit paano pambili na ng bigas ‘yun,” Vargas said, highlighting the minimal earnings that drivers rely on for basic necessities. He also expressed hope that subsidies from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the LTFRB would provide additional support.

Meanwhile, the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) has announced plans to proceed with a protest. According to PISTON national president Mody Floranda, the protest is related to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its impact on fuel prices.

“Karapatan nating ituloy ang pagkilos na ito. Dahil dun sa malaking ginagawa ng Estados Unidos ‘yung usapin ng agresyon ay isa tayo sa tinatamaan bunga ng nagaganap na giyera,” Floranda stated in a separate dzBB interview. He added, “Ang panawagan natin, dapat ihinto ng Estados Unidos ang kanilang agresyon dahil hindi lang Pilipinas ang naapektuhan kundi pati iba’t ibang bansa.”

PISTON plans to hold a press conference on Monday to announce the specific dates for the transport strike.

Expected Oil Price Hikes

The announcement of the fare hike comes amidst projections of significant oil price increases in the coming week. Diesel prices are expected to rise by P19 to P22 per liter, while gasoline prices are projected to increase by P12 to P16 per liter. This surge in fuel costs is a key factor driving the demand for fare adjustments among public transport operators.

Impact on Negros Oriental Commuters

For residents of Negros Oriental, the impending fare increase will likely affect daily commuting costs. Many rely on provincial buses and jeepneys for transportation between cities and municipalities within the province. Students, workers, and those traveling to access essential services will feel the pinch of increased fares. The potential for further oil price hikes only compounds the concerns of local commuters.

The LTFRB’s decision aims to alleviate the financial strain on public transport operators facing rising fuel costs. However, it also raises concerns about the potential impact on the cost of living for ordinary Filipinos, particularly those in provinces like Negros Oriental where incomes may be lower than in Metro Manila.

Looking Ahead

The LTFRB is expected to announce the specific fare adjustments for jeepneys and buses on Tuesday, March 16, 2026. This announcement will provide clarity for both transport operators and commuters regarding the new fare structure. The agency will also need to address concerns about the affordability of public transportation, especially in light of rising fuel prices and potential inflationary pressures.

It remains to be seen how the government will balance the needs of transport operators with the economic realities faced by commuters. Subsidies and other forms of assistance may be necessary to mitigate the impact of the fare increase on vulnerable populations in Negros Oriental and throughout the Philippines.

The planned transport strike by PISTON also presents a challenge. If the strike proceeds, it could disrupt public transportation services and further inconvenience commuters. Dialogue between PISTON and the government will be crucial to resolving the issues and preventing widespread disruptions.

The situation remains fluid, and Breaking News Negros Oriental will continue to provide updates as they become available.

Photo credit: Photo courtesy of LTFRB