A Labor Day protest for drivers’ livelihoods

THE HASHTAGS “NoToJeepneyPhaseOut” and “MayoUno2024” are going viral on X (formerly Twitter) as jeepney drivers, labor unions, and other sectoral groups protest in Manila against the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).  

#NoToJeepneyPhaseOut

Following the April 30 deadline of jeepney consolidation, jeepney drivers and their supporters held a three-day nationwide protest against the PUVMP. 

The strike, led by progressive transport group Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON), started from April 29 to May 1, Labor Day.  

Jeepneys and UV Express units only had until Tuesday to consolidate their vehicle in compliance with the (PUV) modernization program. 

On the second day of the “tigil-pasada” protest, PISTON pointed out how drivers and operators could end up in unemployment and bankruptcy as traditional jeepneys are being phase out in favor of electric vehicles, which cost as high as Php 2.8M each.   

PISTON made it clear that they’re not against the modernizing PUVs but that they are asking for a transition that wouldn’t abruptly affect the livelihoods of many people. 

After the consolidation date passes, the Land Transportation Franching and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will start apprehending unconsolidated jeepneys tomorrow, May 2.

The consolidation’s deadline continues to push through, with the board saying that they have already given the groups “enough time” after allowing eight extensions. 

Failure to comply with the policy will result into their vehicles being impounded in Tarlac, a fine of P50,000 for jeepneys, and a yearlong suspension of the driver’s license.  

Labor Day

May 1 is when we recognize the contributions and achievements of workers worldwide. However, despite their hard work, many workers are left unappreciated. 

Along with the transportation strike, a march among workers was held earlier in Morayta, Manila.

In a report by the Philippine Collegian, Trade Union Congress of Philippines’ Mark Villana said that increased wages will not only create a productive workforce but will also stimulate the economy. 

They urged the Congress to pass the P150 legislated wage hike.  

Meanwhile, NAGKAISA’s Judy Miranda is calling for the entry-level salary of government employees to be set at P33,000 a month. For teachers, they are asking for a P50,000 monthly salary.  

Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino’s Luke Espiritu said the Senate is already discussing a P100 wage increase while the Congress is considering the amount of P150-P750.

Espiritu said Malacañang does not understand how crucial this issue was among workers today. “Pinag-usapan na nila lahat kundi ang dagdag sahod. Dapat mong icertify as urgent ang dagdag sahod,” he said.  

Kilusang Mayo Uno’s Bong Labog believed workers must be paid the family living wage of P1,200. He said the current minimum wage is less than half of this amount and is insufficient, especially when the cost of living continuously increases. 

The march ended with the protesters singing a global song for workers.