3rd Protest Day Canceled: 2-Day Transport Strike Fail Due to Members’ Complaints of Unpaid Allowances?

The Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Tsuper and Operator Nationwide (Piston) reportedly canceled its plan for a third day of protest against the jeepney modernization program of the Duterte government. But while the transport group said that the original plan is only a 2-day protest, some of its members said that it is supposed to be until Wednesday, October 18.



Earlier, Piston expressed its strong opposition against the phase-out of PUV (public utility vehicles) 15 years or older starting in 2018. According to the group, the project would result in huge amounts of debts despite the low-interest rates from the allotted P1.6-million loan, offered by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

Last Sunday, Malacañang announced the suspension of government work and classes in all levels nationwide on October 16, Monday. But on Monday afternoon, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said that “based on the assessment of the JQRT, the nationwide strike of transport group Piston barely affected the riding public.”

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In addition, LTFRB board member Aileen Lizada said the effect of the transport strike was minimal. Reports said that the areas that were not affected include Davao City and Cebu. In an interview, Piston Cebu coordinator Greg Perez admitted that their protestors were dispersed as of 11am, saying that all members were not really interested to join the strike.

Also on Monday afternoon, Malacañang announced that classes and government work will resume on Tuesday despite the second day of strike. But at around 11pm that night, the Palace took back its earlier announcement, saying that it is only because of the transport strike but also because Tropical Storm Paolo entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

Meanwhile, some jeepney drivers in Metro Manila revealed that they were not given the allowance as promised to them. A certain “Mang Jose” claimed that he initially didn't want to join the strike but he said their leader promised them P800-allowance per day if they join. He admitted he agreed because protesting is a much easier job than driving all day.



“Naghinayang po ako e. Para kasing rest day na namin na with pay. Ok sana, kaso P500 lang ang binigay sa akin. Swerte ko pa nga, kasi marami sa amin kahit piso walang nakuha. Tapos, amin pa ang pagkain. Nung Lunes pa lang, bago umuwi, sinabi sa amin na tuloy daw hanggang Miyerkoles, pero umayaw na kami.” The 58-year old jeepney driver said.

Contributed by Salvi Dalida