LTFRB to offer Libreng Sakay during 2-day transport strike

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday said it would offer Libreng Sakay (free ride program) to help commuters who will be affected in the two-day transport strike on April 15-16.

The statement came after transport groups PISTON and MANIBELA announced they would hold a nationwide transport strike next week amid the looming deadline for consolidation of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators.

At a press briefing, MANIBELA president Mar Valbuena said they expect some 30,000 jeepney drivers in the National Capital Region and at least 100,000 others nationwide to join the protest.

Despite the impending strikes, the LTFRB emphasized that PUV consolidation must be completed by April 30, as mandated by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.

"Jeepney operators are urged to avail of the final extension, as those who fail to consolidate by the deadline will have their franchises revoked," the agency said.

Valbuena however insisted that only Congress has the power to revoke franchises.

Both PISTON and MANIBELA said they would still operate even after the April 30 deadline has elapsed.

"Tatakbo kami sa May 1. Kongreso lang ang puwedeng magtanggal sa prangkisa. Tatakbo at tatakbo kami, kung hulihin niyo kami, kami na mismo ang lalapit sa inyo," said Valbuena.

(We will operate on May 1. Only Congress can revoke a franchise. We will operate, and if you apprehend us, we ourselves will come to you.)

The LTFRB asked strike participants not to prevent other jeepney drivers from making a living as they need to provide for their families and for the benefit of commuters.—RF, GMA Integrated News