The Department of Transportation (DoTr) has warned bus operators their franchises would be suspended or revoked if they increased their fares without approval, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to defer any fare hikes during the Holy Week travel rush.

On Holy Monday, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) board member Greg Pua said at least eight bus operators faced complaints filed by the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) for raising fares without permission.

Transportation Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez said show-cause orders will be issued to the operators, which could lead to penalties, including the revocation of their franchise.

“The President has ordered that fare increases be deferred, which is why we are expediting subsidies and government support programs. LTFRB personnel are now deployed. We urge the public to report complaints to the LTFRB, and we assure you that show-cause orders will be issued to bus operators who raised their fares without authorization,” Lopez said.

He also appealed to other transport operators not to raise their fares.

“You are regulated by the government. Any fare increase without LTFRB approval is grounds for suspension or revocation of your franchise,” he said.