Group sets strike vs jeepney phaseout

MANILA, Philippines - A transport coalition will again stage a nationwide transport strike tomorrow to protest what they called the jeepney phaseout policy of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The No Jeepney Phaseout Coalition, headed by Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide, will stage rallies in at least 10 areas in Metro Manila, as well as other cities and provinces in the country, said Piston president George San Mateo.

They will stage protests in Monumento, Alabang, Baclaran, Roxas Boulevard, Anda Circle, Pedro Gil, Cubao, Marikina, Taytay and Novaliches.

The protesters want the government to cancel the planned phaseout of old jeepneys, requiring jeepney operators to have a minimum capital of P7 million and a minimum of 10 jeepneys for each franchise, ABS-CBN reported.

San Mateo said they expect 80 percent of drivers in Metro Manila to take part in the transport strike.

An estimated 15,000 commuters were affected during the last transport holiday on Feb. 6.

San Mateo said the LTFRB is feeding transport operators a line about “modernization.”

However, LTFRB board member Aileen Lizada said the government wants to “level up the type of jeepneys,” not phase them out.

She said the LTFRB is looking for ways to help operators buy new jeepneys.

Lizada said the agency will send government vehicles to give free rides to commuters who will be affected by the transport strike. Private buses would also be available to commuters at minimum fares.

Lizada appealed to UV Express operators to make special trips along routes where jeepney drivers would go on strike.

She also warned drivers and operators who will take part in the transport strike that their franchises could be revoked since they are prohibited from stopping operations to protest any government decision.