Negros transport strike: No work suspension

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — There will be no suspension of work in government offices in this city and in Negros Occidental due to the planned transport strike tomorrow and on Tuesday.

Provincial administrator Rayfrando Diaz said buses and other vehicles owned by the provincial government would be used to transport local government employees.

Diaz said he instructed the human resource management and provincial planning and development office to check the number of local government employees residing outside the city and identify the bus stops where they will be picked up.

Organizers of the strike are expecting a 100-percent transport paralysis in Negros Occidental and in this city even though Vallacar Transit Inc., the operator of Ceres Liner buses, had announced that it would not join.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia reiterated his call for sobriety even as he gave assurance that the city government commiserates with the sentiments of the transport sector.

”Let us also show respect for other stakeholders who may not join the protest action on Monday and Tuesday,” Leonardia said.

He said the city government would observe regular office hours and provide transport services employees who may be stranded.

Dubbed as the People’s Holiday, transport groups said the strike is in protest of rising fuel prices and a call for the suspension of the 12 percent value added tax on petroleum products.

They are also demanding the distribution of fuel subsidy to drivers of public utility vehicles amounting to P6,500 and assistance to operators worth P7,200.