Different transport groups launched their "Unity Walk" on Monday, August 5, calling on the government to reverse its suspension of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
According to a report by RH Val Gonzales, drivers and operators gathered at the Mabuhay Welcome Rotunda in Quezon City at 6 a.m. and planned to march to Mendiola near Malacañang Palace.
During their walk, the group was apprehended by the Manila Police District at España, Manila.
JUST IN: Grupo ng mga tsuper na nagsasagawa ng 'unity walk' bilang suporta sa PTMP, hinarang ng Manila Police District sa España, Maynila | @dzrh5 Val Gonzales #DosPorDos #SamaSamaTayoPilipino pic.twitter.com/vjOQMra5V8
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) August 4, 2024
The protest reportedly caused significant traffic disruptions for motorists.
Later, during an exclusive interview on Damdaming Bayan, Jeff Go Tiangco, National President of the Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations of the Philippines (FEJODAP), stated that they would continue to Mendiola as they had been given a "go signal" to deliver their message.
"Ang apela lang po namin, sana po bilisan ang pag-aaral para hindi na maantala ang programa dahil gumamit na tayo ng napakahabang panahon na hindi pa rin mapondohan, hindi maipatupad nang maayos," said Tiangco.
"Sa hanay po namin, 100% na po ang consolidated. Kami po ay sumasaloob na sa sinasabing consolidation. Ang susunod nalang pong hakbang ay ang rationalization at budget para sa [modern jeepney units]," he added.
Tiangco noted that FEJODAP, including the 'Magnificent 7,' does not agree with the Senate's decision to temporarily suspend the PUVMP, stating that it only requires constructive discussions.
The Magnificent 7, however, did not join the Unity Walk, as they believe a transport strike is not a solution to the issues concerning the PUVMP.
Earlier, Senators signed a resolution urging the government to immediately suspend the implementation of PUVMP wherein 22 out of 23 senators signed.
