LTFRB: Reports say Monday’s transport strike a plot to ‘destabilize gov’t’

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Sunday said it has "received reports" that the transportation strike on Monday, October 16 is meant to "destabilize the government."

"We are receiving reports that the transport strike tomorrow led by PISTON will be supported by other left-leaning groups allegedly the plot is to destabilize government. On the part of government we will be providing Kalayaan rides as well as private buses," LTFRB board member Aileen Lizada said in a text message to reporters.

The Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) is set to hold the two-day strike nationwide beginning Monday to oppose the government's public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program which they claim is a jeepney phaseout plan that would require the purchase of newer, more expensive models.

Among the groups supporting this week's nationwide transport strike are Kadamay, Migrante, League of Filipino Students, and Kilusang Mayo Uno.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority earlier said that the strike will not paralyze the transport sector.

It added that it will deploy trucks, ambulances, and rescue teams on October 16 to 17 to provide free rides and assistance to stranded commuters.

Malacañang has already announced the suspension of government work and classes in all levels of both public and private schools nationwide on Monday, October 16. — Marlly Rome Bondoc/BM, GMA News