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Jean Mangaluz - Philstar.com
March 16, 2026 | 11:31am
Motorists crawl through heavy traffic along EDSA–Taft Avenue in Pasay City on January 4, 2026 as vehicles pass through sections reopened following the ongoing EDSA rehabilitation project.
Ryan Baldemor / The Philippine STAR
MANILA, Philippines — A fare hike is set to take affect across most modes of public transit, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Monday, March 16.
A fare increase for provincial buses had already been announced over the weekend amid soaring fuel prices due to the U.S.-Iran conflict.
In an interview with ANC, DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez confirmed looming fare hikes for metro buses, point-to-point buses, modern and traditional jeepneys, as well as airport taxis.
“Definitely, there will be a price fair hike increase. As to the ballpark figure, that is what we will talk about with [Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Chair Vigor Mendoza II], but definitely, the fare hike that will be imposed is something reasonable and beneficial to both, not only to the transport groups, but also the commuters,” Lopez said.
Lopez said that they will prioritize the sustainability between community welfare and the ability of transportation hubs to continue operations.
The country’s transportation woes are further exacerbated by the approaching Holy Week, one of the busiest travel holidays of the year.
A more detailed announcement on the fare increases will be made on Tuesday, March 17, said Lopez.
Several transport groups are already preparing mass mobilizations and transport strikes. The DOTr secretary said he respects the rights of these groups' right to protest, adding that the government will ensure that no one gets stranded because of the strikes. Government buses and assets will be deployed for free rides.
