MANILA, Philippines – Provincial bus fares increased on Saturday, March 14, following an order from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The LTFRB approved the fare adjustment on Friday, March 13. Under the new rates, fares will vary depending on the type of provincial public utility bus (PUB) and the distance traveled.

• PUB provincial (Airconditioned, Super Deluxe, Deluxe): P0.35 per kilometer
• PUB provincial (Luxury): P0.45 per kilometer
• PUB provincial (Ordinary): P1 on the base fare and P0.30 on the succeeding kilometer

The adjustment of fares in provincial buses comes amid the rising price of fuel due to the conflict in the Middle East.

Here’s a breakdown of the fare increase per kilometer.

The fares for jeepneys and city buses in Metro Manila are also expected to increase. LTFRB chief Vigor Mendoza III said the adjustments will be announced on Tuesday, March 17.

In response to the rising cost of fuel, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will be providing P5,000 cash aid to public utility vehicle drivers.

Aside from DSWD’s cash assistance, Department of Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez said in a press briefing on Monday, March 16, that it will also provide fuel subsidy to public utility vehicles. Lopez, however, has yet to discuss the amount and details of this initiative.

The agency plans to distribute the fuel subsidy next week or the fourth week of March. – Rappler.com