NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Progressive Groups Opposes Proposed Fare Increases of LRT 1, LRT 2, and MRT 3
A coalition of various groups has released a position paper opposing the fare increases proposed by the operators of LRT 1, LRT 2, and MRT 3 in the Philippines. The group argues that public utilities should be regulated to protect public interest, and fare increases should not be treated as entitlements that operators can invoke at any time.
The groups said the flawed process that saw fare hikes approved in 2015 resulted in a pending petition before the Supreme Court. “Unlike other utilities, there is no regulatory body mandated by law to approve fares for the country's train system. The Department of Transportation's (DOTr) attempt to create a regulatory unit to hear and approve fare hike petitions is also considered irregular and legally defective,” it said.
Bayan said the proposed fare increase would only add to the burden of Filipinos who are already experiencing high inflation and low wages. “The LRT 1 fare hike, proposed by Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), is based on an onerous concession agreement that allows it to increase its fares every two years, with reimbursement from the national government if not allowed. LRMC is asking for a maximum fare hike of up to PHP 14.00 per passenger,”the group said.
Bayan said LRMC is out of touch with reality.” LRMC's claim of a 96% passenger satisfaction rating is self-serving and ignores the daily complaints of commuters,” it said.
The LRT 2 fare hike proposal, owned and operated by LRTA, seeks a minimum fare increase of PHP 2.00 from the current PHP 11.00 fare. Bayan argues that this will also have a significant impact on commuters who are already struggling to make ends meet.
The coalition calls for the rejection of these fare hikes and the abolition of the onerous concession agreements that prioritize private profits over public service. Bayan further notes that the fare hike petitions of both LRMC and LRTA have not been posted on the DOTr website as of February 13, and there was no proof of publication in any newspaper of general circulation 10 days prior to the hearing.
The group stresses the need for regulatory bodies independent of the DOTr to oversee fare hike petitions and ensure the protection of public interest.
The groups said the flawed process that saw fare hikes approved in 2015 resulted in a pending petition before the Supreme Court. “Unlike other utilities, there is no regulatory body mandated by law to approve fares for the country's train system. The Department of Transportation's (DOTr) attempt to create a regulatory unit to hear and approve fare hike petitions is also considered irregular and legally defective,” it said.
Bayan said the proposed fare increase would only add to the burden of Filipinos who are already experiencing high inflation and low wages. “The LRT 1 fare hike, proposed by Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC), is based on an onerous concession agreement that allows it to increase its fares every two years, with reimbursement from the national government if not allowed. LRMC is asking for a maximum fare hike of up to PHP 14.00 per passenger,”the group said.
Bayan said LRMC is out of touch with reality.” LRMC's claim of a 96% passenger satisfaction rating is self-serving and ignores the daily complaints of commuters,” it said.
The LRT 2 fare hike proposal, owned and operated by LRTA, seeks a minimum fare increase of PHP 2.00 from the current PHP 11.00 fare. Bayan argues that this will also have a significant impact on commuters who are already struggling to make ends meet.
The coalition calls for the rejection of these fare hikes and the abolition of the onerous concession agreements that prioritize private profits over public service. Bayan further notes that the fare hike petitions of both LRMC and LRTA have not been posted on the DOTr website as of February 13, and there was no proof of publication in any newspaper of general circulation 10 days prior to the hearing.
The group stresses the need for regulatory bodies independent of the DOTr to oversee fare hike petitions and ensure the protection of public interest.
Feb 18, 2023
