ILOILO City — Tricycle fare hikes in the city are legally sanctioned under an existing ordinance that automatically ties rates to rising fuel prices.
Even as complaints from commuters continue to mount, Councilor Romel Duron, author of Regulation Ordinance 2022-032, stressed that tricycle fare adjustments are not arbitrary but anchored on a fuel-based matrix approved by the city government.
“This is provided for under the ordinance passed by the city,” Duron said.
The ordinance institutionalizes a structured fare matrix allowing tricycle drivers to adjust fares depending on prevailing petroleum prices — effectively triggering increases as fuel costs climb.
Under the ordinance:
* The minimum fare is P15 when fuel prices range from P60 to P69 per liter.
* It increases to P18 when prices reach P70 to P79 per liter.
* It goes up to P20 when fuel prices hit P80 and above per liter.
“When fuel prices increase, there is also a provision that allows fares to increase. That is why our drivers have reason to adjust,” said Duron.
The clarification came after passengers raised concerns over higher fares being charged by some tricycle operators and drivers associations (TODA), prompting calls for tighter regulation.
“We have received complaints, but the public must understand that there is an existing ordinance that serves as the basis for this,” Duron said.
He emphasized that while fare hikes are allowed, these must strictly adhere to the approved matrix and should not exceed prescribed rates.
“They cannot go beyond what is set in the ordinance. It must be followed accordingly,” he added.
To ensure transparency and prevent disputes, Duron urged drivers to prominently display fare matrices inside their units.
The fare matrix should be visible inside the tricycle so passengers will know the correct fare.
While acknowledging the burden of rising fuel prices on drivers, Duron said the city is also mindful of the financial strain on commuters.
“We understand the situation of our drivers, but we are also looking at the capacity of the riding public. That is why we have this system in place,” he said.
A separate proposal seeking further fare adjustments remains pending before the city council, with officials assuring that consultations will be conducted to strike a balance between the welfare of drivers and commuters./PN
