A three-day transport strike is set to begin tomorrow in anticipation of the looming public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) consolidation deadline and Labor Day.
The Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) announced that they will be protesting the government’s PUVMP by organizing another transportation strike from April 29 to May 1.
PISTON deputy secretary general Ruben Baylon stated that they aim to disrupt major routes in Metro Manila, with the participation of other transport groups and labor leaders.
The strike will impact routes in various areas such as Alabang, Baclaran, Sucat, Monumento, Novaliches, Litex, Anonas, and Katipunan.
Baylon emphasized that they will continue to oppose the mandated consolidation requirement even after the April 30 deadline. He urged the government to prioritize promoting mass transportation instead of targeting small franchise operators who play a vital role in serving the country.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reported that over 75 percent of legitimate operators have already complied with the consolidation requirement. The LTFRB also warned of apprehensions and revocation of licenses for operators who continue to operate beyond the deadline.
The Land Transportation Office will collaborate with the LTFRB to apprehend operators without valid franchises after the deadline.
President Marcos confirmed that the consolidation deadline for public utility vehicles will not be extended past April 30.
Earlier this month, PISTON and transport group Manibela conducted a two-day transport strike that they claimed successfully paralyzed major routes. However, transport officials downplayed the impact, attributing it to causing traffic inconvenience for the public.
The Department of Transportation disclosed their readiness to impose charges and penalties against protesters for traffic violations.
Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena recently faced charges of libel and violations of the Cybercrime Prevention Act, following allegations of corruption against Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista within the LTFRB.
