Philippine police intensify support for transport regulators to combat illegal fare increases, warning operators against exploiting high fuel prices.
MANILA: The Philippine National Police has intensified its support for transport regulators in going after unauthorised fare increases. Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr warned public utility vehicle operators against exploiting the ongoing spike in fuel prices.
Police units nationwide are now actively assisting the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in monitoring transport companies. The companies are suspected of imposing illegal fare hikes.
“Our mandate extends to looking after the welfare of the riding public,” Nartatez said in a statement. “We will ensure that rules and regulations are strictly followed as part of the PNP’s commitment to protect the commuters during these challenging times.”
He called on the public to report transport firms engaging in unauthorised fare increases. “We urge all our compatriots to report any incident of unauthorized fare increase,” he said.
Nartatez warned that failing to act would encourage others to do the same. The Department of Transportation earlier warned that violators may face a show-cause order and possible suspension of their licences.
This action is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s directive to defer fare hikes.
(Bernama-PNA)
