As a student commuting daily around Cagayan de Oro, I experience firsthand how sudden, unverified fare markups add up. Every extra five or ten pesos taken above the official rate might seem small to some, but for us students on tight daily allowances and workers stretching minimum wages, it directly impacts what we can afford for meals and daily needs. It's more than just a few pesos – it's about fairness and ensuring we can all access transport without financial strain.

In Cagayan de Oro, the current public transportation system lacks a comprehensive oversight mechanism to regulate fares, leading to arbitrary increases that often go unnoticed. Even though fare rates are officially set, drivers sometimes demand higher fares during peak hours or specific routes. These unregulated markups disproportionately affect the city's students and minimum wage workers, who already struggle to balance their daily expenses.

According to the 2020 Philippine Statistics Authority, there are over 1.6 million students and minimum wage earners in Mindanao, many of whom rely on public transport for their daily commutes. When fares spike unexpectedly, it means choosing between a full meal or cutting back on essential supplies. This is not just an economic issue but a matter of fair access to the basic right of transport.

To address this, we urge the local government of Cagayan de Oro to implement the following measures:

1. Establish a transparent fare monitoring system that ensures all public transport operators comply with the official fare rates.
2. Set up a hotline for commuters to report unjust fare increases and inconsistencies quickly.
3. Form a local committee that includes representatives from student bodies, labor unions, and government offices to regularly review and adjust fare structures based on current economic conditions.
4. Conduct awareness campaigns to educate both drivers and passengers about the enforceability of fare rates and the rights of commuters.

Together, we can create a transport system in Cagayan de Oro that is fair and affordable for everyone. Fair CDO fares are not just a luxury; they are a necessity that impacts our daily lives and our future opportunities.

Please sign this petition to urge the authorities to make these crucial changes, ensuring fair and regulated transport fares that accommodate the needs of all citizens, thereby improving the quality of life for the entire community.