Capiz PUV drivers decry oil price hike, ‘Libre Sakay’

By Felipe V. Celino 

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – Several drivers and operators of public utility vehicles (PUVs) in Capiz were dismayed by the series of oil price increases and the “Libreng Sakay” program of the government.

According to Tatay Roming, oil price hikes cut into their income as fares remain the same.

Roming added that their income is only enough for their fuel and they have nothing to take home to their families.

Another driver, Toto, observed that the national government’s Libreng Sakay or free ride program has affected their income as most passengers prefer the latter than riding PUVs and tricycles.

PUV and tricycle drivers and operators are seeking the help of the local government officials to look for a win-win solution as they could not anymore take the situation.

They have noticed that prices of petroleum products are higher by P5 per liter compared to prices in Iloilo and Aklan provinces.

Transport groups are seeking fare hikes ranging from P3 to P5 due to the successive oil price hikes this year.