Bus fares rise in Negros as fuel crisis hits transport costs

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Vallacar Transit Inc. announced Monday that it will implement a fare adjustment amid the Middle East tensions that have contributed to the global oil crisis.

“To our valued passengers, there will be an additional fare increase per kilometer in every route,” the bus firm said in its advisory.

The company said the adjustment is being implemented following approval by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board amid the unstable movement of fuel costs in the world market caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has greatly affected the operating costs of public transportation.

Vallacar Transit is one of the largest bus operators in the Visayas and Mindanao, operating routes across Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and other provinces under its Ceres Transport brand.

The fare adjustment is intended to help ensure that buses continue to operate regularly while maintaining proper maintenance, safety standards, and quality service for passengers.

As fuel remains one of the primary expenses in bus operations, the continuous oil price hikes have made it necessary for the company to follow corresponding adjustments in fares to sustain daily operations, the bus firm said in a statement.

The grant of provisional increase was made by virtue of Section 16 of Commonwealth Act 146, otherwise known as the Public Service Act, as amended, and Section 5 of Executive Order No. 202.

The Public Service Act grants the LTFRB the authority to approve provisional fare adjustments for public utility vehicles when justified by significant changes in operating costs, allowing transport operators to adjust rates while a formal review is conducted.

Despite these challenges, the bus firm said it remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services to the riding public.

The updated fare matrix reflecting the new rates will be posted at terminals and inside buses for the guidance of all passengers.

The bus firm appealed for the understanding and continued support of the public as it works to maintain dependable transportation services amid rising operational costs.