(Photo from PISTON)
"We will once again set up our strike centers and move together towards restoring the five-year franchise and junking the business and foreign modernization program. Our stand against the government's modernization program, which does not serve the interests and needs of our drivers and operators, is what is gradually leading to our victories," said Mody Floranda, president of PISTON, in a Facebook post.
They laid out the areas in Metro Manila where the transport strike will begin and expressed their sentiments regarding the PTMP.
(Photo from PISTON)
Meanwhile, the government is prepared for the impact of the two-day jeepney transport strike by providing "Free Rides" for the public.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), various Local Government Units, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the Metro Manila Development Authority will deploy vehicles for commuters affected by the transport strike, according to reports.
(Photo from PNA)
LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz stated that they respect the rights of the drivers and operators to express their sentiments as provided for in the Constitution, yet they urge them not to cause traffic trouble on major roads.
PISTON and MANIBELA are demanding the termination of the PTMP, cancellation of the forced franchise consolidation, renewal of the franchise and registration of all public utility vehicle (PUV) operators, including those who did not join the consolidation, zero budget for PUV phase-out programs, and redirect the funds to the rehabilitation of traditional jeepneys and subsidies to local industries. They also request that those who have entered franchise consolidation be permitted to withdraw their participation.
