The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) holds the key to fare increases and rollbacks for public utility vehicles (PUVs). That said, they are also in charge of providing the public with a copy of the fare matrix and encouraging the operators to display the fare matrix which outlines approved fare rates for different routes and types of PUVs.
Obtaining a copy of the fare matrix from the LTFRB is crucial for PUV operators to ensure compliance with fare regulations and transparency in fare charges. By following the outlined procedures and requirements listed here, operators can facilitate smooth processing and avoid penalties for non-compliance.
What is a Fare Matrix
A fare matrix, otherwise known as a fare guide, is a document provided by the LTFRB. It serves as a pricing chart and reference guide in public transportation, assisting both passengers and operators in determining travel costs for various routes and types of public utility vehicles. Displayed prominently inside PUVs, the fare matrix allows passengers to verify fare charges, promoting accountability, transparency and fairness, and preventing overcharging and disputes between operators and passengers. Failure to display the fare matrix may result in penalties for operators.
In order to comply with the mandate to display a fare matrix with every change in the fare rates, PUV operators are then required to obtain an updated fare matrix from nearby LTFRB offices before they can implement such change in rates. Drivers who implement fare increase without displaying a fare matrix may be considered overcharging. Drivers who do not apply for a fare matrix will be considered violators of the law as well and will be penalized accordingly.
Eligibility to Get a Copy of the LTFRB Fare Matrix
The copy of the fare matrix is not just for everyone. It is only made available to the following who need it:
- Operators of public utility vehicles (PUVs)
- Those affected by the recent fare increase order (if any)
Requirements for Securing a Copy of the LTFRB Fare Matrix
To ensure that only those who are qualified to get a copy of an original fare matrix, these are the requirements that the LTFRB asks from the requesting parties:
- Latest OR/CR (Official Receipt/Certificate of Registration) from the Land Transportation Office (LTO)
- Franchise verification
- Copy of Provisional Authority (PA) for operators without a Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC)
- Official receipt of payment
Procedures for Securing a Copy of the LTFRB Fare Matrix
Once you have the documentary requirements, you may then start with the request for a copy of the fare matrix that you need from the LTFRB by following these steps:
Step 1. Visit the nearest LTFRB office during office hours (Monday to Saturday).
Step 2. Proceed to window 13 or 14 for payment assessment.
Step 3. Wait for the Payment Order Slip (POS) to be issued.
Step 4. Once you have a POS, proceed to the cashier window and pay the required fee.
Step 5. Once paid, wait for the official receipt of payment to be issued to you.
Step 6. Armed with the official receipt and the other documentary requirements, proceed to window 12 and submit everything for evaluation and verification.
Step 7. Wait for up to two days for processing.
Step 8. After two days, return to the LTFRB office where you put in the request for a copy of the fare matrix.
Step 9. Get a queue number and wait for your turn.
Step 10. Collect the fare matrix/guide from window 11 once it is ready.
Cost of Securing a Copy of the LTFRB Fare Matrix
The fare matrix issued by the LTFRB is not free. There is a fee associated with obtaining one and this fee is payable at the LTFRB office cashier upon submission of the documentary requirements. To apply for the authority to charge according to the new fare guide, it is necessary to pay for the application for the following fees:
- Increase of rate – PHP 510.00
- Legal Research Fee – PHP 10.00
To get a copy, drivers and operators have to pay PHP 50.00 for each copy of the fare matrix.
Violations and Penalties
Fare matrices are not automatically issued and used. Operators need to apply for the authority to charge the rates stated in the fare matrix. They also need to request for a copy of the fare matrix at the LTFRB. Failure to comply with fare regulations and the terms and conditions for using fare matrices, including displaying the fare matrix and implementing fare increases only after the effective date, may result in penalties.
According to LTFRB’s Joint Administrative Order 2014-01, overcharging is a violation and its penalties will apply and it ranges from PHP 5,000.00 for the first offense to potential CPC cancellation for the third offense. MC 2005-024 also listed the following penalties for violations related to the use of fare matrix in PUVs.
- No Fare Matrix Displayed/Photocopied Fare Matrix Displayed
- First Offense – PHP 500.00
- Second Offense – PHP 1,000.00
- Third Offense – Cancellation of Franchise.
- Fake Fare Matrix Displayed
- First Offense – a Php 5,000.00 and Thirty (30) day Suspension of Franchise
- Second Offense – Cancellation of Franchise
The Law Enforcement Service of the LTO is in charge of apprehending Public Utility jeepneys (PUJs), Metro Manila Aircon and Non-Air conditioned Public Utility Buses (PUBs), and Provincial Non-Air Conditioned Public Utility Buses (PUBs) with no original fare matrices found and displayed in the vehicles. Photocopied matrix is only allowed if the driver or operator can provide the original when demanded for comparison and validation. Enforcers are also directed to surrender all confiscated plates to the Legal Division of the Board for proper processing and disposition.
Video: LTFRB NCR Opens Online Application of Fare Matrix
In Metro Manila, the LTFRB Regional office in the National Capital Region (NCR) already allowed the online application for fare matrix to encourage faster issuance. Watch this video from ABS-CBN News:
Summary
Securing a fare matrix may seem like a simple procedure, but getting a copy and the permission to use it is anything but. It requires securing permission to do so and an original copy of the fare matrix as well. If you are an operator or a driver, you can’t use a photocopied fare matrix either, lest you get slapped with hefty fines and penalties.
or more information or other inquiries, you may reach out to the LTFRB via the following:
