Tricycle operators and drivers in Tagbilaran City have petitioned for a P5 fare increase as fuel prices continue to climb following oil supply disruptions tied to the Middle East conflict.
The Metro Tagbilaran Tricycle Drivers Association said 21 tricycle operator and driver groups in the city have united behind the petition, which was submitted to City Mayor Jane Yap.
The proposed fare structure sets a minimum of P20 for the first kilometer, with P5 for each succeeding kilometer.
City Councilor Leonides Borja, chairman of the Committee on Public Utilities and Franchises, said the Sangguniang Panlungsod is awaiting the mayor’s endorsement before the council can act on the request.
Some drivers expressed frustration with the city government, saying fares have remained unchanged despite rising fuel costs.
The petition comes as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has blocked proposed fare increases for public utility vehicles nationwide, calling them ill-timed given the current fuel price crisis.
DOE bars containers
The Department of Energy (DOE) has directed all gas stations nationwide to stop allowing pump attendants to fill containers brought by vehicle owners, as part of measures to prevent hoarding and panic buying amid rising fuel prices.
Under the advisory, now posted at gas stations across the country, fuel may only be pumped directly into vehicle tanks to ensure adequate supply for all consumers.
The DOE warned that non-compliant stations face possible closure.
Gas stations are also barred from pricing fuel outside the set range and must ensure sales remain consistent with normal consumption patterns.
Fuel-grade drums or containers may only be used for legitimate operational purposes, including machinery, fishing vessels, or government operations.
Stations are required to report suspicious transactions to the DOE.
SUMMONS
The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Tagbilaran has summoned local oil dealers and officials from the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Energy, and City Price Coordinating Council to answer questions about the continuing rise in petroleum prices.
City Councilor Agustinus “Dodong” Gonzaga raised the issue during a special session March 12, 2026 presided over by Vice Mayor Adam Relson Jala, saying the council wants to determine the basis for varying fuel prices among the city’s gas stations.
Gonzaga warned that petroleum price increases directly affect commodity prices, transportation fares, and other economic activities that impact public livelihood.
He said the council will also probe possible hoarding or profiteering in Tagbilaran amid the global oil price surge driven by Middle East tensions.
The investigation is set to be taken up at the council’s next regular session following its inaugural meeting March 16, 2026 at the city’s newly completed legislative building.
PHOTO FROM: Chat gpt