Is the MRT/LRT #farehike fair?

MANILA, Philippines – On Monday, January 5, people riding the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) to go to work will shell out more in fares.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has implemented fare hikes for the 3 major train lines in Metro Manila starting Sunday, January 4. The new fare scheme collects from MRT and LRT commuters P11 ($0.25*) as base fare and an additional P1 ($0.0223) per kilometer from commuters taking the trains.

In other words, a ride on the MRT3 from North Avenue to Taft Avenue now costs P28. Going to Recto from Santolan via the LRT2 will now cost a commuter P24, while a trip to Roosevelt from Baclaran via the LRT1 costs P29.

Transportation authorities explained the increase is long overdue as the plan has been moved for several  years already. Malacañang backed the increase, emphasizing the need to make the fares “reaasonable and just.”

But Is the fare hike fair? MovePH, Rappler’s civic engagement arm, would like to hear your thoughts in a Twitter conversation. Join the discussion or share photos and videos using the hashtag #farehike. 

With the @MovePH Twitter account, I will be facilitating the conversation on Monday, January 5, starting at 6am. See you! – Rappler.com