Manila, Feb. 20 -- Malacanang said Friday it is "premature" to impose another jeepney fare hike since there is a provisional PHP1 fare increase to address rising fuel prices and maintenance costs.

In a press briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government is studying the possible grant of subsidy or alternative assistance to jeepney operators and drivers, pending the decision on the jeepney fare hike petitions.

"Ayon sa kanilang computation, itong provisional grant na ito na fare hike na one peso ay naku-cover pa po ang fuel cost para sa jeepneys," Castro said, citing the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board's (LTFRB) statement.

"Actually, kahit pa sabihin natin na premature, ayon po kay (Land Transport...