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Advocates Philippines
LRT-1 Fare Hike: Balancing Affordability And Inflation, Says DOTr
FILE
The looming fare hike for the LRT-1 has sparked conversations, especially as commuters brace for potential changes in their daily travel expenses. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) assures the public that affordability and inflation are key considerations in the decision-making process regarding the fare adjustment petition from the Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC).
DOTr Assistant Secretary for Railways, Jorjette Aquino, emphasized that their Railway and Regulatory Unit (RRU) is meticulously assessing all aspects, including economic factors and public sentiment, before arriving at a decision. “We consider affordability, inflation, and price indexes. It's a comprehensive evaluation,” Asec. Aquino shared during a public hearing on the proposed fare adjustments.
The LRMC has proposed raising the boarding fare from P13.29 to P18.15 and the distance fare from P1.21 to P10.40. For commuters traveling from Fernando Poe Jr. Station in Quezon City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque City, the fare for a single journey ticket might increase from P45 to P60, while stored value card fares could rise from P43 to P58.
The RRU has a 30-day window to evaluate and make a recommendation on the fare hike request. If approved, the changes could be implemented as early as April, following a mandatory publication period. Asec. Aquino explained, “By the end of March to April, if approved. If not favorable, it ends after 30 days.”
LRMC President and CEO, Enrico Benipayo, highlighted the need for the fare increase to sustain operations and fund the ongoing Cavite Extension project. “To complete the extension, we need government support, either through fare increases or covering fare deficits,” he said.
The fare adjustment process is part of the DOTr's Concession Agreement with the LRMC, ensuring that the rail system's growth and improvements align with economic realities while considering the commuters' ability to pay.
As the public awaits the final decision, the balancing act between fare affordability and the financial sustainability of the LRT-1 continues to be a focal point for both the government and the commuting public.
DOTr Assistant Secretary for Railways, Jorjette Aquino, emphasized that their Railway and Regulatory Unit (RRU) is meticulously assessing all aspects, including economic factors and public sentiment, before arriving at a decision. “We consider affordability, inflation, and price indexes. It's a comprehensive evaluation,” Asec. Aquino shared during a public hearing on the proposed fare adjustments.
The LRMC has proposed raising the boarding fare from P13.29 to P18.15 and the distance fare from P1.21 to P10.40. For commuters traveling from Fernando Poe Jr. Station in Quezon City to Dr. Santos Station in Parañaque City, the fare for a single journey ticket might increase from P45 to P60, while stored value card fares could rise from P43 to P58.
The RRU has a 30-day window to evaluate and make a recommendation on the fare hike request. If approved, the changes could be implemented as early as April, following a mandatory publication period. Asec. Aquino explained, “By the end of March to April, if approved. If not favorable, it ends after 30 days.”
LRMC President and CEO, Enrico Benipayo, highlighted the need for the fare increase to sustain operations and fund the ongoing Cavite Extension project. “To complete the extension, we need government support, either through fare increases or covering fare deficits,” he said.
The fare adjustment process is part of the DOTr's Concession Agreement with the LRMC, ensuring that the rail system's growth and improvements align with economic realities while considering the commuters' ability to pay.
As the public awaits the final decision, the balancing act between fare affordability and the financial sustainability of the LRT-1 continues to be a focal point for both the government and the commuting public.
Jan 9, 2025
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