Transport groups commence a nationwide strike to protest escalating fuel prices driven by Middle East tensions, urging government intervention to alleviate sector challenges.
On March 19, 2026, transport groups in the Philippines, including PISTON and BAYAN, launched a nationwide transport strike in response to soaring fuel prices attributed to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Demonstrators gathered early at key locations such as Welcome Rotonda in Manila and extended their protests to regions including Pasig, Bulacan, and Iloilo. The groups requested the government to take prompt action to address the fuel price surge. This strike followed President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.’s directive to suspend the implementation of a fare hike despite rising petroleum costs. PISTON representative Regie Manlapig expressed dissatisfaction with measures taken so far, noting delays in subsidy releases and ongoing hardship for transport workers due to fuel price increases. Meanwhile, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) activated its Emergency Operations Center to monitor and mitigate potential disruptions caused by the strike, although it did not anticipate significant impact on daily commutes. Transport groups have indicated intentions to continue protests until their concerns, including the removal of excise taxes on petroleum products, are addressed to ease the burden on drivers and the transportation sector as a whole.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/980565/nationwide-transport-strike-kicks-off-amid-rising-fuel-prices/story/