LTFRB junks plea to suspend taxi fare cut

MANILA, Philippines - The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has denied a petition filed by some operators to suspend the P10 cut on the taxi flag-down rate, an official said yesterday. 

LTFRB member Ariel Inton said the board unanimously denied the suspension, citing that the P10 fare reduction on taxi was provisional or temporary.

Winston Ginez, LTFRB chair, earlier said that the board will review the fare cut should oil prices increase to a level that prejudices the operators.

Philippine National Taxi Operators Association president Bong Suntay, who is among those who filed the petition, said the board “finds no reason” to grant the suspension since a motion for reconsideration – which his group filed – will be heard on Friday.

The LTFRB approved on March 9 the nationwide fare cut following a petition filed by Negros Oriental Rep. Manuel Iway. 

Taxi drivers who fail to comply with the order will be fined P5,000.