PNP ready for 3-day transport strike

MANILA, Philippines — Heightened security and commuter assistance are in place as the transport group Manibela holds a three-day nationwide strike beginning today, the Philippine National Police said yesterday.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police units would be mobilized to maintain order and help manage disruptions, with commanders instructed to coordinate with local governments and national agencies.

“Our personnel will be on the ground not only to secure the protest action, but also to assess areas that need mobility assets for commuters who may be stranded,” Nartatez said. “Our goal is to make sure that the rallies will be orderly, similar to past activities.”

Manibela earlier announced the transport strike to protest what it called excessive fines and slow processing of documents for public utility vehicle (PUV) operators.

The group also criticized the continued requirement for provisional authority for unconsolidated PUVs.

Police will be deployed to transport terminals, major roads and affected routes.

Patrol vehicles will be on standby to assist stranded commuters, Nartatez said.

He said the PNP would continue coordinating with transport groups to prevent disruptions.

Manibela had announced the possibility of extending the transport strike, but the PNP said its security and assistance efforts would remain in place for as long as needed.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation vowed to look into the allegations of bribery by officials and personnel of the Land Transportation Office.

Manibela also slammed the LTO over the delays in renewing PUV franchises, saying these rendered drivers unable to transport passengers and earn a living. — Ghio Ong