LRT Line 1 passengers could be charged higher fares by April, should the train operator’s petition for the fare hike be approved.
The Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC) has proposed an average increase of ₱6.02 for mid-distance travel, ₱8.65 for short-distance travel, and ₱12.50 for long-distance travel.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has a 30-day window to resolve the petition, beginning Thursday, January 9, the day of the public hearing concerning the price adjustment.
While the DOTr may veto the proposal, as it undermines transportation accessibility, the hike can be implemented no earlier than April due to required processes, said the DOTr Assistant Secretary, Jorjette Aquino.
If the DOTr accepts the petition, the LRMC will have to release an advisory through the newspapers for three weeks. The increase in prices will only take effect following a 30-day period.
The hike could be delayed should a motion for reconsideration be filed.
Kilusang Mayo Uno Secretary General Jerome Adonis said the fare hike would “hurt the pockets of low-income workers,” as the ₱10 increase would raise their transportation costs by ₱20 daily. For employees punching in work 26 days a month, this means an incremental ₱520.
However, LRMC President and General Manager Enrico Benipayo said that in order to maintain the LRT-1, the price change is essential.
