Transport strike untimely, counterproductive amid energy emergency

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

(PNA photo by Robert Alfiler)

MANILA – Malacañang on Monday described the planned nationwide transport strike as “untimely,” urging dialogue instead as the government rolls out measures to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices.

Transport group Manibela is set to stage a three-day strike from April 15 to 17, citing the government’s alleged slow response to the plight of drivers affected by high oil prices.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the planned protest comes at a critical time when the government is addressing the effects of the Middle East crisis on fuel costs.

“Sa atin po ngayon… ang pagho-hold ng transport strike ay hindi napapanahon sa ngayon. Hindi po ito makakatulong (At this time… holding a transport strike is not timely. It will not help),” Castro said.

She stressed that the administration has already rolled out support for the transport sector, including fuel subsidies, cash assistance and the service contracting program.

“Ang Pangulo naman po ay dumidinig sa mga hinaing ng bawat Pilipino lalung-lalo na po sa transport sector (The President listens to the concerns of every Filipino, especially the transport sector),” Castro said.

Castro also clarified that the President has no authority to suspend the value-added tax (VAT) on fuel products without a law passed by Congress amid calls for an executive action.

“Wala pong kapangyarihan ang Pangulo na mag-suspend ng VAT… dahil wala pong batas (The President has no authority to suspend VAT… because there is no law),” she said.

The call to remove fuel taxes has gained traction among transport groups and some business organizations amid rising global oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The government, however, is currently implementing targeted interventions under the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT), including fuel subsidies and transport support, while studying possible adjustments to excise taxes.

Castro said the administration remains open to discussions with stakeholders.

“Ang kinakailangan po lamang talaga dito ay negosasyon, pag-uusap, pagtutulungan (What is needed is negotiation, dialogue and cooperation),” she said.

She added that any additional measures, including possible fare adjustments, may be taken up in the next UPLIFT meeting on Tuesday.