Palace ‘not intimidated’ by protests, transport strike

MANILA, Philippines — “The Duterte administration will not be intimated nor cowed by threats of protests and strikes coming from those who only think of their own parochial interest.”

Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said this Sunday, a day before a scheduled nationwide transport strike to protest the looming implementation of the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program, which is expected to roll out in 2020.

Panelo said, however, that the modernization of the public transport system was “long overdue.”

“This Administration is committed to serve the paramount interest of the citizens for convenient and accessible public transportation,” Panelo said in a statement.

While assuring that the Palace would not dissuade drivers and operators from joining the protests, Panelo called on protesters to “assemble peacefully and not perform acts of violence.”

“The government will enforce pertinent laws, rules and regulations, including the cancellation of their privileges, such as franchises or certificates of public convenience,” Panelo said.

He also called on concerned government agencies to prepare to assist commuters who would be affected by the strike.

Several local government units have canceled classes due to the nationwide transport strike.

READ: #WalangPasok: Class suspensions for Monday, September 30