The government announced Sunday it will boost alternative public transport options during the jeepney strike scheduled for Monday, March 24.
According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has ordered the deployment of additional buses and trains, while the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will provide free rides in affected areas.
The strike, organized by transport group Manibela, protests what it claims are inaccurate franchise consolidation figures under the Public Transport Modernization Program.
Franchise consolidation is a key requirement under the program. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said the nationwide consolidation rate has reached 86%, but Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena accused the agency of misleading the public and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., insisting the program is not as effective as claimed.
Castro called on Manibela to suspend the strike and instead engage in dialogue with the new leadership at the Department of Transportation to express their concerns.
The planned strike has already led to class suspensions, with authorities expecting disruptions in jeepney availability and increased traffic congestion.