Transport group Manibela on Tuesday began a three-day nationwide transport strike to oppose what it described as excessive penalties, the non-renewal of franchises, and an alleged payola system in the public transport sector.
As early as Tuesday morning, some members gathered near Philcoa along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City, according to one media source.
Philcoa is among at least 19 strike centers identified across Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Manibela said the protest seeks to draw attention to policies and practices within the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) that it claims have adversely affected drivers’ livelihoods.
The strike comes after a long weekend due to Monday’s holiday, prompting some commuters to leave home earlier than usual and look for alternative transportation to avoid inconvenience.
In response, government agencies deployed personnel in key areas to help manage traffic and assist affected passengers.
Aside from Quezon City, Manibela members also staged protests in Nagtahan, Manila, as part of the coordinated action.