Transport group to hold 2-day strike

MANILA, Philippines — A transport coalition will hold a two-day strike in Metro Manila and nearby provinces starting today to protest the jeepney phaseout planned by the Duterte administration.

Drivers and operators belonging to the Samahan ng Tsuper at Operators ng Pilipinas Genuine Organization (Stop and Go) said they aimed to paralyze major routes in the metropolis and nearby regions during the transport holiday today and tomorrow.

Members of Stop and Go opposed the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program.

Stop and Go president Jun Magno said the modernization program aims to phase out old jeepneys and replace these with modern but expensive units that drivers and operators could not afford.

“We do not want to inconveniece the riding public, that’s why we announced the transport strike two weeks ahead of time,” Magno said.

He said drivers and operators could not afford the P1.6-million loan being offered by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for new jeepney units with a daily amortization of P800.

The group is pushing for the rehabilitation of old jeepneys instead of acquiring new units.

Magno said they opposed the PUV modernization program, which he described as anti-poor and could bury operators and drivers in debt. 

He said they were open to a dialogue with LTFRB officials but lamented that previous talks proved futile. 

The LTFRB will activate the joint quick response team, composed of different government agencies, to assist affected commuters during the strike. 

The Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) said it would not join the strike.

Last week, PISTON members held a protest against the jeepney phaseout before joining anti-martial law rallies in Rizal Park.

Classes suspended

Local governments have announced the suspension of classes due to the transport strike.

Classes in all levels (public and private schools) in Bocaue, Malolos and Sta. Maria in Bulacan are suspended today.