Thousands of public utility vehicle drivers nationwide suspend operations to demand government aid amid surging fuel costs.
Thousands of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers across the Philippines participated in a ‘transport holiday’ on Monday, led by the Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations (ACTO), protesting against the steep increase in fuel prices. According to ACTO, approximately 20,000 modern and traditional jeepneys nationwide joined the strike. Additional groups, such as the Western Visayas Alliance of Transport Cooperatives and Corporations, Inc., and the Northern Mindanao Federation of Transport Cooperatives, also temporarily halted their services.
Industry sources report anticipated fuel price hikes of PHP 16 to PHP 18 per liter for diesel and PHP 9 to PHP 11 per liter for gasoline. Some gas stations may see diesel prices surpassing PHP 120 per liter. Drivers reported significant reductions in daily income; for instance, a jeepney driver mentioned that earning PHP 300 a day is considered lucky, while a tricycle driver shared having to work nearly 24 hours to earn around PHP 500 for the family.
Protesters are demanding immediate government interventions, including financial aid for drivers unable to keep up loan payments for modern jeepney units and a moratorium on loan repayments from banks. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) acknowledged the drivers’ hardships but stressed the importance of maintaining transport services, coordinating with local governments and private firms to provide alternative commuter options.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) announced plans to distribute cash assistance starting Tuesday, prioritizing transport network vehicle service drivers first, followed by jeepney drivers, delivery service workers, and motorcycle taxi riders in the succeeding days.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/980997/acto-observes-transport-holiday-amid-rising-fuel-prices/story/
