Palace mulls MRT, LRT student discounts

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang said on Saturday that it may give students fare discounts in the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems in Metro Manila.

In a statement posted on the government website, Malacañang said the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), led by Secretary Jose "Ping" de Jesus, is holding consultations to get suggestions from the riding public regarding the planned fare hikes.

Malacañang has said the fare increases are inevitable, but clarified that the MRT and LRT fare increases would not reach P30.

The highest fare in the 3 light rail systems in Metro Manila is P15.

De Jesus said in an interview over state-owned Radyo ng Bayan that the big subidies being shouldered by the government for the light rail systems prompted the government to study fare increases.

The proposed fare increases fares are part of government's effort to reduce transport subsidies and divert more funds for programs aimed at mitigating hunger, creating jobs and improving the public educational system.

The DOTC secretary assured that fare increases would be based on suggestions from the riding public.

De Jesus encouraged the public, particularly commuters, to voice their positions during the consultations.

"We are studying the best policy to provide better services to the commuters and at the same time improving the delivery of basic services to the majority of the Filipino people," De Jesus said.


source abs cbn