LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – Transport groups in the Bicol region claimed yesterday’s strike in protest of the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program was a success.
Ramon Rescovilla, deputy secretary-general of the Concerned Drivers and Operators for Reform-Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide, said 100 percent of PUVs participated in Camarines Norte, 95 percent in Albay and 90 percent in Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Masbate.
Local government and school officials in Albay announced the suspension of classes on Sunday in view of the strike.
”We anticipated massive paralysis in the city and adjacent areas,” said Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal.
Albay Gov. Al Francis Bichara ordered the deployment of engineering trucks to ferry stranded passengers. Several ambulances were also on standby.
Senior Inspector Malou Calubaquib, Bicol police spokesperson, said they also deployed police and military trucks for passengers, particularly those affected in the Daraga-Legazpi route. – Cet Dematera, Francis Elevado, Celso Amo