PISTON transport strike continues for second day
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The Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) said its transport strike will push through for a second day on Wednesday to press the government to act on the plight of jeepney drivers amid rising oil prices.
The group said they expect drivers and operators from various areas to continue joining the strike, which could affect public transportation in parts of the country.
PISTON is calling on the government to address their concerns and review existing laws and policies, including the Oil Deregulation Law and the excise tax on fuel.
In a social media post, PISTON said its members will hold a strike at protest centers before they gather at Welcome Rotunda at 2 p.m. for a march to Mendiola in Manila.
Authorities, meanwhile, are expected to monitor the situation and deploy assistance to commuters affected by the strike.
Several universities have also suspended face-to-face classes in light of the transport strike.
According to a report of James Agustin on GMA News’ Unang Balita, PISTON members held a program along Aurora Boulevard corner West Point Street in Cubao, Quezon City on Wednesday morning.
One of its members Celso, who operates the Cubao-Divisoria route, said he was willing to sacrifice two days of income to bring their concerns to the government.
During his last day of operation, Celso said he earned only P200.
Despite the strike, commuters were still able to find jeepneys operating along routes from Cubao to Divisoria and Quiapo.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said jeepney fares could be reduced if fuel prices decline in the coming months.
A fare rollback could be considered if a petition is filed, noting that a similar reduction was implemented in 2018 when fuel prices significantly dropped, according to the LTFRB.
The minimum fare for traditional jeepneys is currently P14.
However, PISTON is opposing a possible fare rollback. The group has a pending petition before the LTFRB seeking a P10 fare increase, saying the amount is needed to help drivers cope with rising fuel costs and provide for their families.
Another transport group, Manibela, is separately seeking a P2 fare increase.
Some commuters, including minimum-wage earners and students, meanwhile expressed support for lower fares, saying higher transportation costs add to their daily expenses. —with a report from Joviland Rita/LDF/KG, GMA News
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