Rising fuel prices are prompting the Mandaue City Council to push for temporary relief for motorists through lower vehicle registration fees.
During its regular session on Monday, March 30, the council approved a resolution urging the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to implement a temporary reduction in motor vehicle registration fees and related charges for both private and public utility vehicles.
The measure was sponsored by Councilor Jennifer S. Del Mar and co-sponsored by Councilor Cesar Y. Cabahug Jr., citing the sustained rise in global fuel prices due to tensions in the Middle East.
In an interview, Del Mar said, “Beyond our control ang pag saka sa presyo sa gasolina. Ako gi sige huna-huna asa tah dapit maka help na puede ma control sa ato Governo. Perhaps LTO can help. Kay ang affected kaayo mga drivers man.”
The council highlighted the Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC), collected by the LTO to fund national and provincial road maintenance and address air pollution caused by vehicles.
Rates vary by vehicle type, weight, and year model, with light passenger cars starting at P1,600, medium cars at P3,600, and heavy cars at P8,000.
For public utility vehicles, fees are generally lower, with light PUVs at P900, medium at P1,800, and heavy at P5,000.
While fuel subsidies are being provided to some sectors, the council said that temporarily reducing registration fees and MVUC would give broader and more sustainable relief for motorists facing higher operational costs and living expenses.
Del Mar clarified that the measure does not include traffic violation penalties and plans to coordinate with the Cebu Provincial Government for further support.
Copies of the resolution will be forwarded to the LTO Assistant Secretary, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Office of the Mayor for immediate consideration and action.
Image: Manila Bulletin
