WITH the calibration of taxi meters, Dabawenyos will see an increase in their regular fare in the coming weeks.
It can be noted that netizens have begun posting on social media notable changes in their regular taxi fares.
Last October 4, 2017, the Land Transportation and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has approved the increase of fares for taxi services in Metro Manila and the provinces.
The board approved a flagdown rate of P40 and authorized taxi operators to charge consumers P13.50 per one kilometer and P2 per minute of waiting time from origin to destination.
Prior to the increase, flagdown rate in Davao City is P40 and consumers are charged P3.50 every 300 meters and P3.50 every two minutes of waiting time.
This is equivalent to P11.66 per one kilometer or an increase of P1.84 per kilometer and a P0.25 increase per minute of waiting time.
The Philippine National Taxi Operators Association (PNTOA), the organization that filed for the taxi fare increase, said in its position paper on February 10, 2017 that there is a need to increase the taxi fare as the last increase was in 2010.
They also said the increased traffic congestion in Metro Manila and other major cities in the country has "drastically reduced the income of the taxi drivers."
The organization also said that "taxi operators are suffering financial hardship due to record low levels of dispatch and increases in spare parts prices and other expenses."
"What convinced the Board in resolving in favor of petitioners prayer for fare increase is the fact that the last increase was granted back in 2010 or seven years ago. From the past decisions and orders of this Board relative to fare adjustment, the prices of fuel was the major concern," LTFRB said in their decision to approve the taxi fare increase.
In LTFRB's memorandum circular order 2017-026, the board aims to accomplish the calibration, sealing or resealing of the taxi meters by April 2018.
While LTFRB has scheduled the calibration for those covered by the Central Office and National Capital Region, all region offices with taxi services in their areas will be responsible for the calibration and sealing or resealing of taxi meters within their area.