President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to suspend all planned fare increases across the country’s public transport systems. The move is designed to provide immediate economic relief to workers, students, and daily commuters grappling with global economic uncertainties.
In a public address on Wednesday, the President emphasized that the timing is not right to impose additional financial burdens on the Filipino people.
“I have directed the DOTr to defer the implementation of the fare hike,” President Marcos stated. “We must postpone this because we are in a situation where we need to continue supporting our commuters—our workers, our students, and everyone who relies on our transport system.”
To balance the impact of rising fuel prices, the President announced a comprehensive support package intended to lower daily living costs:
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Nationwide “Libreng Sakay”: The DOTr has been mandated to relaunch and expand the free ride program across the Philippines to reduce daily expenses for the general public.
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Railway Discounts: Significant fare discounts will be implemented for the MRT and LRT systems.
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Toll Fee Reductions: The administration is working to provide reduced toll fees to alleviate costs for motorists and logistical transport.
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Support for Transport Workers: President Marcos assured drivers and operators that the government will expedite and increase state subsidies and aid programs to mitigate the effects of oil price adjustments.
The Chief Executive reiterated that the government remains vigilant despite global volatility, prioritizing the welfare of the citizenry above all else.
“Our goal is to ensure that our people feel as little of the global economic impact as possible—ideally, nothing at all—as they go to work and school every day,” the President added. “Your government is always here, constantly seeking new ways to ensure that your lives remain normal, orderly, and safe.”
The suspension of the fare hikes will remain in effect until further notice, as the administration continues to monitor the economic landscape.
