By Azer N. Parrocha
MANILA, Oct. 21 (PNA) — A consumer group on Tuesday said it is all set in submitting a formal petition to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) seeking for a Php1-fare rollback in the minimum fare for public utility jeepneys (PUJs) this week.
In a text message to the Philippines News Agency (PNA), National Center for Commuter Safety and Protection President Elvie Medina said the group will submit the petition to the board on Thursday (Oct. 23).
This petition was sought by the consumer group after a series of rollback in prices of diesel and other petroleum products were reported earlier this month.
The current minimum fare for PUJs is Php8.50 in Metro Manila.
To recall, the decision to grant a Php0.50 fare hike for PUJs was implemented by the board last June. Before the fare hike, minimum fare was only at Php8.00.
At present, the LTFRB said that it will await the petition.
A rollback or increase will next undergo public hearing after the petition is filed.
“The proper procedure (for rollback) has not commenced yet since no one filed a petition with the LTFRB,” said LTFRB spokesperson Atty. Ann Salada.
Earlier, the LTFRB said that it is looking at the possibility of a rollback in PUJ minimum fares before Christmas season. (PNA)