The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)’s failure to address the demands of drivers and operators has fueled PISTON’s resolve to continue its transport strike.

The group remains firm on its demand to remove the December 31 deadline for franchise consolidation, eliminating the franchise consolidation requirement altogether, and repealing the PUVMP in its entirety.

Meanwhile, the second day of the strike coincides with the return of Marcos Jr. to the Philippines following his trip to the United States for the 2023 APEC Summit.

“Sasalubungin natin ang pagbabalik ni Marcos Jr ng pagpapatuloy ng ating malawakang welga dahil wala pang nagiging matinong sagot sa atin ang gobyerno,” said PISTON National President Mody Floranda.

In response to the DOTr statement, PISTON said the only “misconception” on the PUVMP is that it will improve the state of public transport. “Kahit pinalitan mo yung sasakyan pero pinatay mo naman ang kabuhayan ng mga Pilipino, nasaan ang pag-unlad doon?” said Floranda.

“Halatang hindi nakikinig itong DOTr at ipinagmamalaki pang December 31 ay deadline lang sa consolidation at hindi phaseout. Eh yung mismong consolidation nga ang matagal na nating tinututulan. Dahil kahit paano pa nila pagbali-baliktarin, ang franchise consolidation ay pang-agaw sa mga indibidwal na prangkisa na katumbas na ay phaseout. Hindi lang phaseout ng sasakyan ang tinutukoy natin dito, kundi phaseout ng kabuhayan.”

PISTON urges all drivers, operators, and commuters to continue joining the strike, which has gained massive support from commuters, students, and workers, in spite of the Philippine government’s campaign to invalidate the effects of the protest actions.

Despite the numerous reported attacks of state forces on strikers and protesters, the group estimates the nationwide strike has achieved a 90% paralysis on all major routes in Metro Manila alone by the end of the first day.