The transport group MANIBELA launched a two-day strike starting Wednesday to oppose the recent sharp hike in oil prices, calling for government intervention to reduce fuel taxes and increase fares to support drivers.
MANIBELA, a transport organization, commenced a two-day strike on Wednesday to protest against the substantial increase in oil prices that took effect the previous day. Approximately 100 MANIBELA members assembled at Philcoa along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City to demonstrate. The group carried banners urging the government to eliminate excise and value-added taxes on fuel products in order to reduce prices. They also highlighted that prior requests to increase jeepney fares have been disregarded by authorities. The strike caused heavy passenger loads on buses and jeepneys still operating on Commonwealth Avenue. Quezon City Traffic and Transport Management personnel were deployed to manage traffic flow. In response to the strike, the Department of Transportation and other government agencies offered free rides to affected commuters. Additionally, some schools and localities suspended face-to-face classes due to transport difficulties. Public reactions were mixed, with some commuters concerned that even a small fare increase would negatively impact minimum wage earners, while others supported the fare hike demands to aid drivers amid rising fuel costs.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/995704/manibela-starts-2-day-transport-strike-vs-mega-oil-price-hike/story/