LRMC sets LRT-1 fare hike dialogue for Jan 9
A PUBLIC hearing was set for today, Jan. 9, to address the proposed fare increase submitted by the Light Rail Manila Corp. (LRMC), the private operator of LRT Line 1.
This proposal builds on the 2022 fare application but differs from the rates approved in 2023, drawing significant criticism from commuter groups and activists.
LRT-1's current fare structure, approved in 2023, charges commuters a base fare of P13.29 plus P1.21 per kilometer. Under the new proposal, LRMC seeks to implement higher fares, significantly affecting various types of passengers.
Short-distance commuters traveling up to 5 kilometers would see an average increase of P8.65, while mid-distance passengers traveling between 6 and 16 kilometers — approximately 30 percent of LRT-1's ridership — would experience an average increase of P6.02.
Long-distance passengers traveling more than 16 kilometers would face an average fare increase of P12.50.
For single journey tickets, the maximum fare for end-to-end trips would rise from P45 to P60, with the fare for shorter routes like Dr. Santos to Quirino increasing from P30 to P40.
Stored value tickets would see similar adjustments, with maximum fares increasing from P43 to P58 and shorter trips would be from P26 to P36.
AdvertisementProgressive groups, including Bayan, have strongly opposed the proposal, which they describe as the second fare hike under the Marcos administration.
They argue that the increase will impose an undue burden on commuters.
A P10 increase per trip would translate to an additional P20 daily expense, or approximately P400 per month, at a time when wages have remained stagnant, and inflation has accelerated.
Critics also pointed to provisions in the 2015 Concession Agreement that entitle LRMC to a 10.25 percent fare increase every two years without requiring justification beyond contractual terms. This clause, they argue, prioritizes corporate profits over public welfare.
AdvertisementActivists have also criticized the Department of Transportation (DOTr) for what they consider inadequate transparency and accountability in handling the hearing process.
Bayan said it received the hearing notice at 1 a.m. on Jan. 8, less than 24 hours
