Piston continues strike; Manibela ends protest
Transport group PISTON continued a two-day strike in the Philippines to protest fuel prices and transport policies, while the group Manibela ended its protest after one day. PISTON is demanding lower fuel taxes and higher fare increases, while Manibela engaged in discussions with government officials.
Why it matters
The strike highlights ongoing tensions between the Philippine government and transport workers regarding the economic impact of fuel deregulation and public transport modernization.
MANILA, Philippines - Transport group PISTON pressed ahead with its two-day strike yesterday, while Manibela called off its three-day protest after just one day.
PISTON president Mody Floranda said around 70,000 to 100,000 jeepney drivers and operators nationwide joined the strike, which sought lower fuel prices and higher public transport fares.
"Despite the resounding call from the people across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, all we received from the Marcos administration were meager aid, an inadequate fare increase and a pittance of a wage hike," Floranda said.
"Instead of addressing the grievances of drivers and the public, the police have been ordered to harass peaceful strikes and protests," he added.
PISTON renewed its call for fuel prices to be reduced to P55 per liter and for the removal of excise and value-added taxes on petroleum products.
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