Drivers march to Mendiola to protest Marcos’ PUV modernization rule

A protester raises a placard against the government’s PUV modernization program at Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City on Wednesday, August 14, 2024. PHOTO FROM MANIBELA

MANILA, Philippines — Jeepney drivers and operators marched to Mendiola on Wednesday to protest President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to reject calls to suspend the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).

Members of transport group Manibela kicked off their demonstration at Welcome Rotonda in Quezon City and marched towards the Mendiola Peace Arch in Manila to conclude their three-day strike.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said five of its vehicles are on standby to provide free rides.

The vehicles, however, were not deployed since there were still many PUVs on the road, according to the MMDA.

“No stranded commuters are monitored at this time,” an MMDA spokesperson told reporters in a Viber message.

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The MMDA said the protest march caused heavy traffic, with its tail end at Fishermall in Quezon City, spanning an estimated four to five kilometers at one point.

Furthermore, as of 3:21 p.m., the protest rally in Welcome Rotonda was already dispersed, while the westbound of the rotunda was already passable, according to the MMDA.

Manibela started their strike on Monday, Aug. 12, leading to many passengers in Metro Manila being stranded.

Marcos rejected the call of senators to suspend the PTMP.

Marcos noted that 80 percent of jeepney franchises have already been consolidated.