MANILA, Philippines – Several transport groups are gearing up for a nationwide transport strike from Monday to Tuesday, October 16 to 17.
The protest aims to oppose the planned public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program of the government, mandating the replacement of jeepneys aged 15 years or older. (READ: Buses, jeepneys in the Philippines to be modernized by 2020)
As the transport strike is expected to pose problems for commuters, Malacañang has suspended classes at all levels in public and private schools nationwide, as well as work in government offices.
But since Malacañang's order does not cover work in the private sector, the transport strike is expected to affect thousands of employees, especially in Metro Manila.
Traffic and transportation problems are common in Metro Manila even when there is no transport strike. (READ: Humor and agony: Best stories from #DiaryOfACommuter)
To help commuters who will be stranded due to the transport strike, netizens are encouraged to report problems using the hashtag #CommuterWatch.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), according to the agency's digital media head Jan Paul Songsong, will be using the hashtag to monitor reports shared by stranded commuters on the road. – Rappler.com