Tricycle operators and drivers in Davao City have formally petitioned Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte and the Sangguniang Panlungsod to approve a fare increase, citing mounting financial strain due to surging fuel prices and inflation.
In an urgent petition dated March 3, the Tricycle Alliance of Davao City said the current minimum fare of P10 for the first kilometer—unchanged since May 2020—is no longer sustainable under current economic conditions.
The group pointed out that gasoline prices have risen to approximately P91.69 per liter following a significant fuel price hike on March 17, 2026. This reflects an increase of about 140 percent from the P38.00 per liter rate recorded when the existing fare structure was implemented.
In addition to fuel costs, the alliance noted that cumulative inflation has exceeded 28 percent over the same period, further diminishing drivers’ already limited earnings.
“The tricycle sector in Davao City currently holds the distinction of having the lowest fare rates in the Philippines, yet faces operating costs that have tripled. As a result, many drivers take home daily earnings that fall below the poverty threshold after covering fuel and boundary expenses,” the petition read.
Unlike larger public utility vehicles, tricycles typically operate on shorter routes, resulting in higher fuel consumption per passenger. The group emphasized that the current P1 rate for each succeeding kilometer is “mathematically unsustainable” given prevailing fuel prices.
To address these challenges, the alliance is proposing a revised fare structure that includes a P20 minimum fare for the first kilometer and an additional P5 for each succeeding kilometer.
The group also assured authorities that they will continue to grant the mandated 20-percent discount to senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students.
“We further commit to professionalizing our ranks, ensuring all units are properly registered with the CTTMO, and eliminating the practice of ‘haggling’ or ‘contracting’ by strictly adhering to a fair and transparent fare matrix once approved,” the group said.
The petitioners urged the city council to act promptly on their request during its regular session, warning that thousands of drivers and their families could face deeper financial hardship if fare rates remain unchanged.
