Manila – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is gearing up for the planned three-day transport strike by the group Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston) starting Monday. The PNP will provide free rides and increase security measures to manage the potential disruptions.
According to Philippines News Agency, the police force will deploy 920 vehicles to offer free transportation services, in addition to those provided by local government units (LGUs) and other agencies. Fajardo, in a radio interview, mentioned that the PNP will be on heightened alert with 9,000 officers ready to secure transportation hubs, passenger pickup and dropoff points, and respond to any emergencies. The officers and vehicles will be strategically positioned in areas known for high commuter traffic.
Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan has also ordered the mobilization of 25 vehicles and a team of officers to assist those affected by the strike. Free ride services will be available along several key routes in Quezon City. The police will also conduct foot, mobile, motorcycle patrols, and checkpoints to preempt illegal activities. "We understand the challenges they may face in reaching their destinations, and we want to alleviate that burden by offering free rides during this period of disruption," Maranan stated.
In anticipation of the strike's impact, major universities in Metro Manila have suspended in-person classes at all levels and shifted to work-from-home arrangements. This precautionary measure has been adopted by universities such as the University of Santo Tomas, Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, University of the Philippines, and others. Similar announcements were made by educational institutions and local government units in Pampanga, Laguna, and Albay.
The transport strike by Piston, which opposes the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, is expected to cause significant transportation challenges, prompting these preemptive measures by the PNP and local authorities.