The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is currently examining a request made by several transport groups last week to increase the fare for Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJ) by two pesos (P2.00) per passenger for the first four kilometers.

According to LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III, the Agency acknowledges the rights of operators and drivers who wish to propose fare adjustments for PUJ passengers.

"There are many factors to consider when reviewing fare hike petitions or requests. These factors should have to be carefully studied, reviewed, and validated by the Board before we can allow any fare hikes. We understand the urgency of the situation, and that is why the Board will convene to determine if the fare hike request has merit," stated Chairperson Guadiz.

It can be recalled that last week, several transport groups, including the Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas (LTOP), Pagkakaisa ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON), Stop & Go Transport Coalition Inc., and The Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP), submitted formal letters to LTFRB, requesting the approval of an additional two-peso (P2.00) fare increase for PUJ passengers.

According to the letter, the ongoing rise in petroleum product prices is the driving force behind the proposal put forth by these groups.