Transport groups Piston and Manibela to hold nationwide strikes September 17-19

Two major transport groups, Piston and Manibela, are staging nationwide transport strikes from September 17 to 19.

The strikes protest alleged corruption in the government's use of fuel excise taxes and other levies, with groups claiming funds are misappropriated.

Piston specifically cited the burden of fuel taxes and debt from jeepney modernization, while Manibela alleged that diesel excise taxes are financing extravagant lifestyles.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will assist commuters affected by the strikes and has coordinated with local government units for the deployment of police mobility assets.

PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez stated that while the police respect the transport groups' concerns, they must balance the right to strike with the right of commuters not to be disrupted.

In response to the strikes, the Department of Transportation announced that free rides will be offered to affected passengers, with services provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Ports Authority, and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.