Manila – The recent transport strike in the National Capital Region had a minimal impact on public transportation, according to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). This conclusion is based on the number of Libreng Sakay (free ride) rescue vehicles deployed during the strike.
According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB spokesperson Celine Pialago, citing data from the first two days of the strike, noted that around 50 government vehicles were deployed daily since Monday, which is fewer than the 66 vehicles used during a previous strike in October. The LTFRB, along with other agencies like the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr), worked to ensure that alternative transportation was available on affected routes. The strike, organized by Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston), was a three-day protest against the government's public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) and related consolidation requirements, as well as recent amendments to the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines. The MMDA reported that 83 rescue vehicles were deployed on Wednesday, assisting 1,547 passengers.
While negotiations between the LTFRB and Piston have not been finalized, the transport group agreed to end the strike on Wednesday morning and continue their protest through a march to Malacañang. Pialago stated that several demands of the protestors have been addressed, including waiving penalties, extending franchise validity to up to five years, and making changes to the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines. However, the deadline for consolidation or submitting a letter of intent, set for December 31, remains firm and is described as 'non-negotiable.'
Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista emphasized the importance of consolidation, a key aspect of the PUVMP, stating that it is crucial for industry players to form cooperatives or corporations. This measure, he asserted, is essential for the modernization program and cannot be compromised.