Philippines fuel prices to drop as PUV fares increase

Fuel prices in the Philippines are set to decrease following three consecutive weeks of hikes driven by Middle Eastern tensions. According to the Department of Energy, diesel prices are expected to drop by as much as P8.00 per liter, kerosene by up to P6.00 per liter, and gasoline by at least P0.24 per liter. This rollback is attributed to stabilizing crude shipments and cooling international oil benchmarks.

Simultaneously, public utility vehicle (PUV) fares are increasing. Effective September 28, the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys will rise by P1.00, moving from P13 to P14 for the first four kilometers. Modern jeepneys will see a P2.00 increase in base fare, from P15 to P17.

Other adjustments include bus fares, which vary by vehicle type, and taxi flag-down rates, which will increase to P65 for regular taxis. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez noted that all PUVs must display updated fare matrices and continue to provide the mandatory 20 percent discount for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.