MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Transport group Piston will hold another transport strike beginning September 23, 2024 to 24 to oppose the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).

Piston said the strike would involve the transport group Manibela and make the following demands:

• Junking of the PTMP
• Cancellation of forced franchise consolidation
• Renewal of franchises and registrations for all public utility vehicle (PUV) operators, including those who choose not to consolidate
• Zero budget for PUV phaseout programs, with funding redirected towards the rehabilitation of traditional jeepneys and subsidies for local industries
• Allowing those who entered franchise consolidation to withdraw

Due to the announced transport strike tomorrow, September 23, 2024, the following schools and universities will shift to online classes.

• University of Santo Tomas (All levels, remote work arrangement)
• De La Salle University (Senior high school, undergraduate, and graduate levels on the Manila and Laguna)
• De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (Benilde Manila, Antipolo, Senior High School, and Deaf School)
• Lyceum of the Philippines University Manila (Except CITHM face-to-face laboratory classes)
• Adamson University (All levels)
• Mapúa University (All levels Intramuros and Makati)

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will deploy “Libreng Sakay” (free ride) vehicles in line with the two-day transport strike organized by the transport groups.

“We remain committed to ensuring the commuting public’s access to transportation.” LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III said.

Sources: (1), (2), (3), (4)

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