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Transport group Piston announced a nationwide strike set to begin on Thursday, March 19, in protest against rising fuel prices.
Piston National President Mody Floranda made the announcement during a press briefing at Welcome Rotonda on Tuesday.
He said the action will cover the National Capital Region and other areas across the country as a response to the government’s failure to address the surge in petroleum costs.
Floranda added that the group will also submit a petition seeking a P5 increase in the jeepney fare to help offset rising operational expenses.
The transport leader warned that if diesel prices hit Php 120 per liter, drivers consuming 30 liters daily could lose as much as Php 3,600 in income. He called on Congress to remove the value-added tax and excise taxes on fuel to relieve drivers and commuters.
Floranda stressed that the strike aims to highlight the economic burden on public utility vehicle operators amid continuing fuel price hikes.
Authorities reminded commuters to plan ahead as the protest may affect transport services in key urban centers during the strike period.
