Transport group PISTON concluded its two-day strike, criticizing the Marcos Jr. administration for its failure to manage the public transport sector effectively.
“S“Who is Guadiz to claim the strike had no impact? He doesn’t even leave his office,” said PISTON National President Mody Floranda.
In response to the strike, the DOTr and LTFRB announced a two-month extension for PUV franchise consolidation.
For PISTON, this proves that the Marcos Jr regime is weak and that all it can do is to lie and deceive the public.
“Oh, so they were exposed. They are really a failure and they are lying when they say that many people want the consolidation. Who are they to decide the fate of our livelihoods? They are not the ones who have to endure the heat of the sun every day just to make a living,” added Floranda.
The second day of strike has recorded an 85% paralysis of major routes in Metro Manila. Strikes and protests were also held in Baguio City, Southern Tagalog, Bicol, Western Visayas, and Cebu.
PISTON warns the Marcos Jr government of more strikes and protests as long as the government deems the phaseout of ordinary drivers and operators’ livelihoods as “non-negotiable.”
“What do they expect from us when we are being openly stripped of our livelihoods? To go hungry while being buried in debt? No. We will fight. We will fight in all arenas.” Floranda concluded.