The transport group PISTON announced a nationwide strike as a protest against rising fuel prices caused by Middle East conflicts and perceived government inaction.
On March 16, 2026, the Philippine transport group PISTON declared plans for a nationwide transport strike on March 19, 2026, involving drivers and operators across the country. PISTON’s national president, Mody Floranda, stated the strike aims to protest rising fuel prices attributed to turmoil in the Middle East and criticize the current government’s insufficient response. The group intends to demand a ₱5 increase in public transport fares to compensate for drivers’ reduced income due to higher petroleum product costs. PISTON also condemned the government’s ₱5,000 cash aid to affected drivers and operators as inadequate. Furthermore, the group called for the repeal of the Oil Deregulation Law, which they claim enables oil companies to set fuel prices arbitrarily, and for the suspension of excise taxes on fuel products. The strike is set to take place nationwide, not only in the National Capital Region, with participation from drivers, operators, and the public.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/balitambayan/balita/980219/piston-nagkasa-ng-tigi-pasada-sa-march-19-2026-hihirit-ng-p5-dagdag-singil-sa-pamasahe/story/
