Eight bus companies at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) are continuing their operations despite reports of unauthorized fare hikes that defy a suspension order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, as reported by RH Jecelle Ricafort.
Terminal officials clarified Tuesday that the authority to penalize these operators rests solely with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Department of Transportation. While the terminal monitors daily activities, it lacks the legal mandate to sanction companies for fare-related violations.
In response to recent complaints, some operators have started reverting their rates to standard levels. For instance, one bus company has reportedly returned its Daet route fare to 840 pesos, down from the 925 pesos it charged during the peak of the price adjustments.
However, at least one company has refused to implement a rollback, maintaining that its current rates are consistent with previous LTFRB orders.
The fare dispute coincides with the Holy Week travel rush, which has left the terminal heavily congested.
As of March 31, Bicol-bound trips are 80.36% fully booked, while northern routes have reached 73.59% capacity. Travel to Mindoro is currently at 36.36%, with Visayas and Mindanao routes trailing at 11.11%.
To manage the surge, PITX management noted that some partner operators have reduced their total number of trips. These companies cited the continuous rise in petroleum prices as a primary reason for the struggle to sustain full operations.
Despite these challenges, operators have committed to deploying additional units as long as passengers remain at the terminal.
Under a revised system, backup buses will only be dispatched once all existing slots are confirmed fully booked. Terminal officials warned that this protocol may result in longer waiting times and urged travelers to purchase tickets well in advance.
Passenger volume at PITX has already surpassed 1.6 million as of Monday. Authorities expect that number to reach 3 million by the end of the holiday period.
