ACTO observes ‘transport holiday’ amid rising fuel prices

Thousands of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers across the country staged a transport holiday on Monday, led by the Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations (ACTO), in protest of rising fuel prices.

ACTO said around 20,000 modern and traditional jeepneys are expected to participate in the transport strike nationwide, according to a report of Darlene Cay on GMA Integrated News’ Unang Balita. 

More groups such as the Western Visayas Alliance of Transport Cooperatives and Corporations, Inc. as well as Northern Mindanao Federation of Transport Cooperative also temporarily stopped their operations. 

According to industry sources, diesel prices could increase by P16 to P18 per liter on Tuesday, while gasoline prices may go up by P9 to P11 per liter. 

This could push diesel prices beyond P120 per liter in some gas stations.

Many drivers said their daily earnings have drastically declined. 

One jeepney driver said that earning P300 a day is already considered fortunate, while a tricycle driver said he has to work nearly 24 hours just to bring home around P500 for their family.

Protesters are calling for immediate government assistance, including financial aid and relief measures for drivers who are unable to keep up with payments for modern jeepney units. 

They are also urging banks to grant a moratorium on loan payments for drivers and operators affected by the crisis.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) acknowledged the plight of drivers but emphasized the need to maintain transport services. 

According to the LTFRB, it is coordinating with local government units and private companies to provide alternative transportation for affected commuters.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is set to roll out cash assistance this week for affected transport workers. 

Aid distribution is scheduled to begin Tuesday for TNVS drivers, followed by public utility jeepney drivers on Wednesday, delivery service workers on Thursday and Friday, and motorcycle taxi riders on Saturday.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA Integrated News