PNP warns transport group vs harassing PUJ drivers
As ‘indefinite’ strike starts tomorrow
MANILA, Philippines — With Manibela intent on staging an “indefinite” strike starting Monday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) warned the transport group not to harass public utility jeepney (PUJ) operators and drivers who will not join their cause.
Col. Jean Fajardo, the PNP’s chief publicist, said members of Manibela are free to air their grievances but they should not “force other drivers who want to ply their routes.”
While police officers will observe maximum tolerance, Fajardo said they will not hesitate to enforce the law should the transport group resort to violence.
Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena said they will launch a transport strike unless the government suspends the implementation of the jeepney modernization program and extend the validity of their franchises.
He said that PUJ drivers in 600 of their 785 routes in Metro Manila would join the transport strike.
In response, Fajardo said the PNP would mobilize its vehicles to provide free rides to stranded commuters.
The PNP will also deploy police officers to maintain peace and order on the streets.
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