A new transport strike led by Piston and Manibela began today, September 23, at Monumento in Caloocan City to oppose the government’s Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program, specifically the requirement for franchise consolidation.
Jeepney drivers in E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue, Quezon City, continued operations early Monday morning, despite the strike. No reports of stranded passengers have surfaced as of this morning.
WATCH: Ilang mga pampasaherong jeep, tuloy ang biyahe sa kabila ng ikinasang transport strike ng Piston at Manibela | RH 29 @boy_gonzales, DZRH News#DamdamingBayan
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The strike, expected to last until September 24, aims to protest policies that transport groups say endanger the livelihood of small operators and drivers who cannot afford to buy modernized PUVs.
Due to this, several members of PISTON reportedly sought donations from their fellow jeepney drivers .
WATCH: Ilang mga pampasaherong jeep, tuloy ang biyahe sa kabila ng ikinasang transport strike ng Piston at Manibela | RH 29 @boy_gonzales, DZRH News#DamdamingBayan
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) September 23, 2024
LIVE: https://t.co/MCMaoboxYp pic.twitter.com/PS9fbzI0Lw
Organizers estimate that around 90,000 drivers nationwide will participate in the protest.
Piston and Manibela are calling for the junking of the PUV Modernization Program and the cancellation of forced franchise consolidation. They also demand the renewal of all PUV franchises, rehabilitation of traditional jeepneys, and withdrawal options for those who have consolidated.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has rejected calls to suspend the program, stating that 80% of operators have complied with the consolidation requirement for easier access to loans for modern vehicles.
