A total of twelve transport groups in Metro Manila and various parts of the country have announced that they will not participate in the three-day strike scheduled for July 24.
Among those who decided not to join the transport strike, organized by Manibela for the welfare of commuters, are Pasang-Masda, Alliance of Concerned Transport Organization, and Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Assoc. of the Phils. (FEJODAP).
According to Pasang-Masda Chairperson, Obet Martin, they made the decision not to be part of the tigil-pasada initiated by Manibela because they believe it lacks a sufficient basis for the cause they are fighting for.
"Wala pong sasama sa grupo na 'yan para makiisa doon sa kanyang programang hindi ko maintindihan. Sapagkat, walang sapat na basehan ang kanyang ipinaglalaban," Martin stated during an interview in DZRH Magandang Umaga Pilipinas with Angelo Palmones.
"Ang ipinaglalaban niya ay "no phaseout" na sinagoot na ng ating kalihim... Wala pong phaseout ng jeepney, 'yan po ang isang ipinagyayabag ng grupong 'yan," he added.
Earlier, LTFRB Chairman Teofilo 'Jojo' Guadiz and other Department of Transportation (DOTr) officials met with the "Magic 12," a group composed of various leaders from different transportation organizations.
During the meeting, the Magic 12 declared their decision not to partake in the three-day nationwide transportation strike.
Mody Floranda, the National President of Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON), also confirmed that they will not be joining the three-day tigil pasada organized by Manibela.
When asked if they would participate in the strike, Floranda expressed respect for the positions of various groups and federations, acknowledging that the transportation issues are legitimate and shared by all.
