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Passengers queue at a bus terminal in Sampaloc, Manila on March 29, 2026, traveling early to their provinces ahead of the Holy Week exodus.
The STAR / Ryan Baldemor
MANILA, Philippines — Eight bus companies have been issued a show cause order (SCO) following allegations that they implemented illegal fare increases without government approval, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said.
In a statement on Monday, March 30, LTFRB chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said that the firms, some of which operate routes in Bicol Region, now face the potential suspension or total cancellation of their certificate of public convenience (CPC), the primary document required for public transportation operations.
“We understand the challenges that bus companies and other operators of public utility vehicles are facing now but these challenges must never be used as a reason or as an excuse to violate existing regulations at the expense of commuters,” Mendoza said.
“This is not acceptable and they must explain properly why they should not be penalized,” he added.
The SCO mandates that the eight bus companies submit a formal explanation within 10 days of receipt, detailing why they should not be penalized for imposing additional fares.
According to the LTFRB, the firms cited rising fuel costs as the reason for the hike, despite lacking the necessary authorization from the regulatory body.
The LTFRB also issued a cease and desist order, instructing all affected companies to immediately stop overcharging or collecting any additional fees from passengers.
A formal hearing for all eight firms has been scheduled for April 23.
The LTFRB warned that any company failing to submit an explanation or attend the hearing would be considered to have waived their right to be heard, leading to an automatic P5,000 penalty and further administrative sanctions.
Although the LTFRB had previously allowed a price adjustment for public transport services, including buses, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. halted the move on March 18.
