Palace: Fare Hike a 'Last Resort' Amid Rising Fuel Prices

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos is still not keen to lift the suspension he imposed on fare hikes that were supposed to take effect in March, with a Palace official calling it a “last resort” even as fuel prices rose for a third straight week due to renewed tensions in the Middle East. “We are still considering the situation and we are still looking at the welfare of the riding public,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Cheloy Garafil said in a Palace briefing. “It is a last resort. We are not keen on it,” she added. Garafil was reacting to the proposed fare increase for public utility vehicles (PUVs) which was supposed to be implemented last March 15. She said that the fare hike is still under consideration and that the Palace is still looking at the welfare of the riding public. “We are still considering the situation and we are still looking at the welfare of the riding public,” she said. Fuel prices have been on an upward trend for three consecutive weeks due to the ongoing geopolitical developments in the Middle East. This has led to increased operational costs for PUVs, prompting transport groups to push for a fare hike. However, the Marcos administration has consistently prioritized the affordability of public transportation for the general populace. The suspension of the fare hike is a move to cushion the impact of rising inflation on commuters, many of whom are already struggling with the increased cost of living. The Palace’s stance underscores its commitment to ensuring that essential services remain accessible to all Filipinos, especially those in urban centers like Metro Manila where public transport is vital for daily commutes. The decision to maintain the suspension, despite the pressure from transport operators, highlights the delicate balancing act the government faces between supporting the transport sector and protecting the purchasing power of its citizens.