Transport strike set on Monday, Nov 20; Piston promises to paralyze streets

THE transport group Pagkakaisa ng Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) announced a three-day transport strike starting November 20, Monday.

The group promised to paralyze the streets of Metro Manila with their members opting not to drive on certain peak hours.

Piston in protesting the approaching Dec. 31 deadline for franchise consolidation applications under the PUV or public utility vehicle modernization project.

Earlier the transport group Manibela held a strike in October.

They protested against the PUV modernization program which they claim would lead to the phaseout of hundreds of thousands of traditional jeepneys nationwide. 

But this early, authorities are downplaying the strike saying it will cause “minimal” disruption on traffic. 

The LTFRB noted that  jeepney drivers and operators have backed the PUV modernization program, as “50 percent or more” already consolidated.

“To be reviewed pa rin yan. In fact, ongoing ang meeting ngayon ng ating chairman para ipatawag at i-double check ang percentage ng consolidation at ma-review kung gaano kadami ang sumusuporta ng PUV modernization program,” Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board spokesperson Celine Pialago said.

Nevertheless, Pigalao said they will coordinate with other agencies and local government units to ensure that the public would have public transport during the strike.