Classes suspended in 5 Laguna cities due to jeepney strike

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

LUCENA CITY — Local government officials in key cities in Laguna province suspended in-person classes at all levels on Monday, Nov. 20, due to a jeepney strike.

The mayors of Cabuyao, Biñan, San Pedro, Sta. Rosa, and Calamba in Laguna declared that schools in their respective localities would shift to modular and online classes.

Authorities in Sta. Rosa City also announced that commuters could avail themselves of the free transportation provided by the local government.

Government employees in Cabuyao City will conduct work-from-home arrangements, except for those involved in disaster and emergency response.

Workers in income-generating government offices will be subject to the decisions of their respective department heads.

Police Colonel Harold Depositar, Laguna police chief, advised the public to plan their travels and consider alternative arrangements during the strike period.

“We are working closely with relevant authorities to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety,” Depositar said on social media.

READ: LTFRB identifies 13 routes affected by jeepney strike

He announced that protest rallies were scheduled to take place in certain areas of Laguna.

“While we respect the right to peaceful assembly, we urge participants to express their grievances in a lawful and orderly manner. Law enforcement will be present to ensure the safety of all residents and to maintain peace and order,” the police official said.

In Rizal province, Gov. Rebecca “Nini” Ynares announced that no local transportation groups would join the strike.

She said the provincial government had coordinated with local governments to ensure that other forms of public transportation would be sufficient and available to meet the transportation needs of commuters.

“LGUs (local government units) will also provide free rides, if needed,” she said.

Ynarez said the Department of Education may issue arrangements for alternative learning based on its discretion, policies and guidelines.

On Nov. 15, transport group Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (Piston) announced its plan for a three-day strike nationwide starting Nov. 20 to protest the Dec. 31 deadline for the consolidation of traditional public utility jeepneys. INQ