The transport group Piston continues its strike to urge the government to address the challenges faced by jeepney drivers due to increased oil prices, impacting public transportation in the Philippines.
The Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston), a prominent transport group in the Philippines, announced the continuation of its transport strike for a second consecutive day. The strike aims to compel the government to take concrete action on the concerns of jeepney drivers, who are struggling amid rising fuel prices.
Piston expects drivers and operators from various regions to participate in the ongoing strike, which has the potential to disrupt public transportation services in affected areas. The group is advocating for a review and amendment of current laws and policies, including the Oil Deregulation Law and the excise tax imposed on fuel, which they say exacerbate the financial burdens on drivers.
As part of their protest, Piston members plan to first gather at designated protest centers and later convene at Welcome Rotunda in Manila by 2 p.m., from where they will march to Mendiola, the traditional site for demonstrations to government offices.
In response to the strike, authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have announced measures to assist commuters impacted by transport service interruptions. Moreover, several universities have preemptively suspended face-to-face classes to accommodate the limited transportation options available to students and staff.
The strike highlights ongoing challenges faced by the country’s public transportation sector, particularly the jeepney drivers who are seeking governmental relief amidst fluctuating fuel costs and economic pressures.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/metro/1004208/transport-strike-to-continue-for-second-day-piston-says/story/
