PNP mobilizes assets to assists commuters during 3-day transport strike

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed personnel and vehicles to assist commuters and maintain peace and order as transport groups hold a three-day strike over rising fuel prices.

In a statement on Monday, PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered police units to increase their presence at transport terminals, major roads, convergence points, and other areas where passenger volume is expected to rise, or disruptions may occur.

“Our police units are prepared to maintain peace and order while providing assistance to commuters who may be affected by the transport strike,” said Nartatez.

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Transport group Manibela began a strike on Monday to protest rising fuel prices, which it said have increased operating costs and reduced the earnings of drivers, operators, and riders.

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READ: Transport strikes a go as fare hikes take effect

Manibela Chair Mar Valbuena earlier said that more than 20,000 transport workers in Metro Manila will take part in the three-day strike.

The approved fare hike increases the minimum fare for traditional jeepneys from P13 to P14 and for modern jeepneys from P15 to P17, with higher rates for succeeding kilometers.

Valbuena said the P1 increase for traditional jeepneys was insufficient to offset fuel price hikes totaling a net P50 per liter for diesel.

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Another transport group, Piston, is set to hold a two-day strike on Sept. 29 and Sept. 30, expecting between 70,000 and 100,000 participants, including workers’ groups, urban poor organizations, and commuters.

The PNP said its “Libreng Sakay” programs would also be deployed in coordination with local authorities to help commuters reach their destinations.

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“We recognize the right to peaceful expression, and we will also protect commuters, motorists, drivers, transport workers, and the general public,” said Nartatez. /jpv