BACOLOD City — The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Sagay City, Negros Occidental has approved a temporary increase in tricycle fares to help drivers cope with rising fuel prices and operating costs, while ensuring that commuter protection remains in place.
Under Resolution No. 2026-117, passed during its 35th regular session on March 18, the city council authorized provisional fare adjustments for all motorized tricycles-for-hire operating within Sagay’s jurisdiction.
The measure, introduced by Councilor Perfecto B. Marañon, was prompted by mounting economic pressures, including volatile global petroleum prices, increasing vehicle maintenance expenses, and the rising cost of basic goods.
Based on the resolution, the base fare has been increased from P11.00 to P15.00 for the first three kilometers, while the distance surcharge was raised to P2.00 per succeeding kilometer from the previous P1.50.
A 20% fare discount remains mandatory for senior citizens, students, and persons with disabilities. For routes without specified rates, a flat fare of P15.00 will apply within a three-kilometer radius, with an additional P2.00 charged for every extra kilometer.
In special cases where trips exceed three kilometers and involve poor road conditions, fares may be mutually agreed upon by the driver and the passenger.
The city council emphasized that the adjustments are temporary and will be lifted once fuel prices and related costs stabilize.
Officials said the decision followed consultations with various Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODAs), which had earlier petitioned for fare relief to sustain their daily earnings.
The council noted that tricycles remain a vital mode of transport, particularly in barangays and inner-city routes where access to public transportation is limited.
At the same time, the city government underscored its commitment to protecting commuters—especially vulnerable sectors—from excessive fare increases.
To ensure transparency, all tricycles are required to prominently display the approved temporary fare matrix inside their vehicles.
The measure reflects the city’s effort to strike a balance between supporting transport workers’ livelihoods and maintaining affordable mobility for the public amid ongoing economic challenges./PN
