With fuel and operating costs pressuring drivers, transport authorities approved higher jeepney fares effective Sept. 28. The adjustment revives increases approved in March but suspended before passengers could be charged.
The Department of Transportation approved the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board recommendation to implement the delayed rates. Traditional jeepneys will charge ₱14 for the first four kilometers, up from ₱13.
Passengers will pay ₱2 for each succeeding kilometer, compared with the current ₱1.80. Modern jeepney minimum fares will rise from ₱15 to ₱17.
Their succeeding-kilometer rate will increase from ₱2.20 to ₱2.40. Operators must display the updated fare matrix before collecting higher fares.
DOTr cited prevailing operating costs and the need to keep public transport services viable and available. Jeepney operators reported some drivers had stopped plying routes because their earnings were no longer sustainable.
“You are our top priority in all the programs we implement at the DOTr,” Lopez, on fare adjustments.
The increases were originally scheduled for March 19 before President Bongbong Marcos ordered their suspension. His directive came amid Middle East tensions and concerns about imposing higher fares during rising fuel prices.
Students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities will retain their mandatory 20 percent fare discount. UV Express services also received a provisional increase, while taxi fare petitions remain under LTFRB review.
The fare changes coincide with a planned three-day transport strike from Sept. 28 to 30.
