THE LAND Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB-6) approved on Monday, Feb 5, a P10 minimum fare for public utility jeepneys (PUJ) in Iloilo, up from the current P6.50. The decision, however, is subject to the final approval of the LTFRB central office. Transport groups in Iloilo City and Iloilo province sought the fare hike amid the looming higher fuel prices due to the tax reform law. LTFRB-6 Director Richard Z. Osmeña said they approved the petition based on the recommendations of the National Economic and Development Authority and the Department of Trade and Industry. The fare hike petition was filed by the Iloilo City Loop Alliance of Jeepney Owners and Drivers Association (ICLAJODA), Iloilo City Alliance of Drivers’ Associations (ICADA), and Confederation of Iloilo Provincial Jeepney Owners and Drivers Association (CIPJODA). Mr. Osmeña noted that officials of the LTFRB national headquarters have recently announced that there will be no fare increase until March. “The approval may still come after March,” he said. — Louine Hope U. Conserva

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