MANILA, (PNA) — Commuter group Riles Laan sa Sambayanan Network shot back anew at the Dept. of Transportation and Communications for its insistence to impose a fare hike n the country’s mass rail systems.
In a statement, Sammy Malunes, Riles Network convenor and spokesperson, said based on their group’s computation a single ride for the Metro Rail Transit and Light Rail Transit costs only P 9.50.
“The actual cost of a single ride ticket, inclusive of its operations and maintenance, is only P9.50. Anything that exceeds that is clean profits for the private big businesses. The truth is, the government does not subsidize the MRT and LRT’s operation but only the guaranteed profits of private corporations under onerous contracts” Malunes said.
Instead of increasing fares, the commuter group suggests that the onerous contracts with the MRT Corporation and private maintenance contractors be junked.
“These grossly expensive and one-sided contracts being shouldered by the riding public should be scrapped. Instead of increasing fares, the government should take over the operation of the MRT and LRT and assure the public of a safe, efficient and affordable transport system. That is their duty,” Malunes said.
The group warned that increasing fares amidst widespread public outrage over the pork barrel scandal could spark wider anti-Aquino sentiments from all concerned sectors.