A commuters’ group has raised concerns over a looming “transport crisis” in the coming days as more public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers are reportedly forced to stop operating soaring fuel prices and fare restrictions.

According to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort on DZRH’s Magandang Umaga Pilipinas, the PARA Commuters’ Network warned that the continued surge in oil prices, coupled with the suspension of fare increases, is pushing many drivers out of service.

Earlier this week, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. ordered the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to suspend a fare increase that was supposed to take effect on March 19.

This situation, they said, could leave commuters struggling to find available transportation.

Nanoy Rafael, convenor of the group, emphasized that fare hikes are not the primary issue for commuters. Instead, he pointed to deeper economic problems such as low wages, lack of decent employment opportunities, and what he described as the government’s treatment of public transportation as a profit-driven business rather than a public service.

Rafael noted that many workers do not even earn the estimated family living wage of ₱1,253 per day, making it difficult for them to cope with rising costs of living.

The group stressed the urgent need for wage increases to help workers keep up with inflation.

They also called on the government to remove value-added tax (VAT) and excise taxes on fuel, arguing that this would directly lower the cost of petroleum, transportation fares, and basic goods.

Earlier, President Marcos Jr. directed the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to release ₱21.47 billion to sustain infrastructure projects and fund fuel subsidies, as part of efforts to cushion the impact of rising oil prices.

Despite these measures, the PARA Commuters’ Network warned that without more immediate and comprehensive interventions, commuters may soon face severe transportation shortages.