Transport groups lukewarm on fare rate reduction
A transport group in Cebu opposed the 50 centavo reduction of the passenger jeepney fare in Central Visayas despite the continued decline in fuel prices in the market.The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB-7) will recommend for the provisional reduction of P.50 on jeepney fare tomorrow despite the objections of some transport groups.
Lazcona of Atomic said their income won’t compensate for their needs and that unlike employees, drivers don’t have benefits such as Christmas bonuses.
“Let’s come to an understanding. The situation of jeepney drivers are not that better compared to workers who have 13th month pay, bonuses, vacation leave and other benefits. Our earnings can’t even reach minimum,” Lascona said.
Greg Perez of the militant transport group Piston said they are open to a fare rate reduction on the condition that the government abolish the oil deregulation law. Romeo Armamento of NCTU-Central Visayas agreed on fare reduction but asked for mechanisms that would protect them in case oil prices rise again.
The Consumer Rights for Economic Welfare, Inc. (CREW) group led by Elias Sabang Jr. said the jeepney fare rates should be reduced due to the lowering fuel prices.
“The P.50 is already a win-win solution,” Sabang said.
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