Accusing filmmaker Jade Castro and his three companions as responsible for the minibus arson in Quezon Province solely based on a social media post criticizing the PUV modernization program (PUVMP) poses a significant danger to dissenters of such anti-poor government policies.
Regardless of the actual culprits in the Quezon minibus arson, authorities must acknowledge that this reflects public frustration and widespread disapproval of the anti-poor, corporate-driven PUVMP that’s been causing job losses and hunger among families.
The PUVMP facilitates the dominance of foreign corporations, corrupt officials, and large businesses in seizing control of public transport, especially with the mandatory franchise consolidation in place.
Castro’s criticism of the PUVMP is not only justified, it is also the sentiment of thousands of PUV drivers and operators, as well as millions of commuters who will suffer under this program.
Public dissatisfaction is only bound to escalate if the government continues to push through with the PUVMP and especially with the Marcos economic cha-cha creeping in the legislature that is set to pave the way for the 100% foreign ownership of public utilities including vital public transport.
Instead of perpetuating an absurd narrative against Castro and his companions and diverting attention from the valid and real grievances over the PUVMP, the government should promptly junk the PUV modernization program, halt all cha-cha plans, release Castro and others, and hold accountable those responsible for their illegal warrantless arrest.