‘Huwag na mag-strike’: Liza Marcos asks transport leader at aid event

MANILA, Philippines—First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Manibela President Mar Valbuena exchanged jokes during a rice distribution event for transport workers in Quezon City on Tuesday, Sept. 29.

This came a day after the group held a nationwide strike.

“Huwag na mag-strike ah, (Don’t go on a strike, okay?)” Marcos asked Valbuena during the rice distribution at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Central Office.

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“Hindi na po. I love you. (Not anymore. I love you.)” Valbuena replied.

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The lighthearted moment came as the government personnel handed out assistance to around 1,000 traditional jeepney and tricycle drivers through its Rice Distribution Program.

Araneta-Marcos said the assistance was meant to help ease the burden on transport workers, noting the demands of their work.

Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the administration had directed government agencies to extend assistance to sectors affected by higher fuel prices, including public utility vehicle drivers.

Aside from 10 kilograms of rice, drivers were provided access to medical checkups and medicines.

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The LTO also offered free medical examinations for those who were renewing their driver’s licenses and made its e-patrol service available for license renewal.

Valbuena told the Inquirer that Manibela had earlier agreed to suspend the second day of its planned strike to participate in a dialogue with LTO officials.

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“[LTO] Assistant Secretary Markus [Lacanilao] requested a dialogue, to stop the transport strike first, so we can talk. So, we agree for just one day, so that we can have a dialogue,” Valbuena said.

He added that the group did not expect the first lady to attend event and lead the distribution of assistance to transport workers. 

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The rice distribution was part of the government’s broader assistance initiatives for sectors affected by rising fuel prices and other economic pressures. /apl