Metro Cebu Bus Operator Seeks Uniform Fare

The Metro Rapid Transit Service Inc. (MRTSI), which operates the High Quality Bus Service (HQBS) in Metro Cebu, is seeking a uniform fare rate of PHP75, regardless of distance.

Its current rates were approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) 7 on Nov. 20, 2015.

The fare is PHP75 from Talisay City to the airport, while it charges PHP25 for shorter distances.

Julito Flores, president of the Cebu South Mini Bus Operators Association, said under the law, an operator of a “developmental route” like MRTSI can only file a petition for a fare increase within two years from the approval of its first fares.

LTFRB 7 Director Ahmed Cuizon said all arguments and positions for or against the fare hike petition will be considered.

Records show that then Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) (now Department of Transportation) authorized MRTSI to operate a transportation route from Talisay City to the airport “since such route was considered development in nature.”

The transport department recognized that “there is no public mode of transport plying the route, making it difficult for people to have direct access to the airport or to the area located along the coastline.”

The MRTSI operates on a special permit issued by LTFRB as ordered by DOTC, dated Nov. 12, 2015, but it has a pending application for new franchise.

The bus company seeks a flat rate because it uses MB Conecto Buses, which only has a seating capacity of 23 passengers since a large portion is dedicated to passenger luggage. (PNA) SCS/EB/RSM