THE Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations (ACTO) has announced a nationwide transport holiday scheduled for Monday, March 23.
This action is being taken by transport groups to protest the continuous increase in fuel prices, which they state is severely impacting their livelihood.
According to ACTO National President Libay de Luna, an estimated 86% of consolidated UVs, traditional jeepneys, and modernized vehicles across Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 categories will participate in the transport holiday. This widespread participation underscores the significant strain that escalating fuel costs, exacerbated by ongoing tensions in the Middle East, have placed on the public transportation sector.
De Luna described the transport holiday as a “silent protest,” emphasizing that there will be no physical demonstrations on the streets. Instead, the collective decision to halt operations aims to express the industry’s distress.
“Kumbaga silent protest, walang magpo-protesta sa labas. Ito po ‘yung senaryo na kapag nagtaas na po nang nagtaas at umabot na ng P200 plus ‘yung diesel, ngayon palang hirap na kami,” she stated, illustrating the dire financial situation faced by drivers who are already struggling with current prices.
The transport holiday serves as a stark indicator of the growing frustration within the sector. With diesel prices nearing a point where many drivers find it unsustainable to operate, this coordinated work stoppage aims to draw attention to their plight and pressure the government to implement measures that could alleviate the burden of fuel price hikes.
The decision reflects a collective plea for relief as the cost of operations continues to climb, threatening the viability of public transportation services.
