300 'stranded,' tempers flare over delayed bus trip to Panagbenga festival

Mechanical problems and a traffic jam in Tarlac almost spoiled the festive spirit of the Panagbenga festival in Baguio City for almost 300 participants who were stranded in Metro Manila before dawn Saturday. Q-11 television reported that tempers flared at the Victory Liner terminal in Cubao, Quezon City, after buses failed to arrive at five-minute intervals. "I'll make a campaign against your office. Masisira kayo tingnan ninyo. Regular commuter ako ng Baguio (I'll make a campaign against your office, your reputation will be ruined. I'm a regular commuter to Baguio)," an irate passenger told personnel at the ticketing office. Other passengers said they waited six hours at the terminal. Still others said they booked their trips two weeks in advance and even stayed in hotels so they would not miss the trip. Some of them slept off their irritation while waiting for buses to arrive. Victory Liner management said buses were delayed because of a traffic jam in Tarlac province, while four of their buses had brake problems. Buses arrived before dawn and eventually accommodated passengers, the report said. Many passengers had hoped to catch up with the flower festival, which marks its highlight this weekend with street dancing and parades. - GMANews.TV