Manila, Philippines - The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is actively looking into the requests made by the transport group Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON), as members continue their strike for a second day.
According to Philippines News Agency, LTFRB spokesperson Celine Pialago, in a press conference on Tuesday, mentioned that the demands of PISTON, which include waiving penalties for missed consolidation deadlines, extending franchise validity to five years, and revising some Omnibus Franchising Guidelines (OFG) provisions, are being considered. However, she clarified that the requirement for consolidation and the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program (PUVMP) are non-negotiable but could be simplified. Pialago noted that unconsolidated PUVs could continue operations beyond the December 31 deadline if they express an intention to join the PUVMP. A meeting between PISTON representatives and LTFRB Chair Teofilo Guadiz III is expected to negotiate these demands. Approximately 129,568 PUJs, UV Express, mini-buses, and buses have already consolidated, representing 65.03% of all authorized PUVs. The LTFRB anticipates that by next year, non-consolidated or non-compliant vehicles may not be allowed to operate, as consolidation will become a prerequisite for registration with the Land Transportation Office (LTO). PISTON initiated a three-day strike to protest the consolidation deadline and other aspects of the PUVMP. In response, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and local governments in the National Capital Region (NCR) have provided 'libreng sakay' (free ride) shuttles in areas affected by the strike.