The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) says it will invite representatives from other government agencies to its next hearing on pending public transport fare hike petitions. In statements reported by outlets covering the announcement, the LTFRB explains that the additional participants will help it assess how any fare increase could affect commuters, transport workers, and the broader economy before the board reaches a decision.
The agencies named for the next round of deliberations include the Department of Economic Development (DEPDev), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the Department of Energy (DOE). These groups are expected to provide relevant perspectives tied to their mandates, reflecting factors such as economic conditions, labor impacts, and energy and fuel-related considerations that are often raised in fare adjustment proposals.
The hearing follows fare hike petitions submitted by multiple transport groups. The LTFRB is still reviewing these submissions, and the planned inter-agency participation indicates the board’s intention to consider a wider range of impacts during its deliberations.
