Transport group Manibela on Wednesday threatened to stage a three-day transport strike starting Monday.
In a statement, the group maintained its strong objection to the Public Transport Modernization Program, citing supposed inaccurate jeepney consolidation figures.
The group, however, clarified it is not against jeepney modernization, but asserted that nobody must be left behind. The group vowed to pursue more transport strikes should the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board continue to ignore its plea.
Saying the government must not introduce foreign-made modern jeepneys, the group said some talented local manufacturers could produce more efficient public utility vehicles.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has acknowledged the right of transport group Manibela to express their concerns, while simultaneously urging them to engage in dialogue instead of proceeding with a planned strike.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has directed Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Non-Infrastructure Dioscoro Reyes to initiate immediate discussions with the concerned transport groups.
The DOTr expressed hope that Manibela would opt for a sit-down meeting to collaboratively address their grievances, ensuring both commuter safety and the welfare of drivers and operators.
The department emphasized its commitment to working together to improve the Public Transportation Modernization Program (PTMP).
Editor’s Note: Information in the sixth paragraph has been corrected, referring to the name of the incumbent Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon. It was previously attributed to his predecessor.