Police Brig. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin, director of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered all policemen tapped to secure the three-day transport strike to exercise maximum tolerance in dealing with angry jeepney drivers and operators.
The transport strike initiated by Manibela started on Monday, March 24, and was buoyed by reports that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) lied to President Marcos when it said at least 86 percent of public utility vehicles (PUVs) already consolidated into either a corporation or a cooperative.
The consolidation is the first phase of the PUV Modernization program and members and leaders of Manibela were angry when Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon supposedly admitted that only half of the 86 percent completed the consolidation process.
The NCRPO deployed 8,000 policemen to secure the converging points and transport strike sites in Metro Manila and Aberin said the policemen were instructed to respect the right of the protesters to assemble and air their grievances.
But he asked those who joined the transport strike to police their own ranks and respect the rights of other people.
“While we are committed to respect the right of people to peacefully assemble and express their views, we also want to remind them to always follow the law and respect the rights of other people,” said Aberin.
“Committed to maximum tolerance, we will be there to ensure the safety of all people. We will enforce the law,” he added.
The transport strike prompted some schools to suspend their classes and Manibela president Mar Valbuena asked for understanding, saying what they are fighting for are the livelihood of jeepney drivers and operators who were affected by the “inaccurate data” of the LTFRB as aggressive operations were launched against them after the 86 percent consolidation rate was reached.
In its Facebook page, Manibela posted several videos and photos of the routes affected by the transport strike on its first day, including some areas in Quezon City, Caloocan City, Paranaque City and Muntinlupa City.
Aberin said policemen were deployed along major thoroughfares, transport terminals, commercial zones, and other areas of convergence.
“In addition, police units on mobile patrols, foot patrols, and motorcycles will be deployed to ensure continuous visibility and swift response to any developing situations,” said Aberin.
He said a Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) has also been activated to guarantee adequate reinforcement is available when needed.
“The NCRPO has also coordinated with local government units and concerned agencies for the possible provision of transport assistance to commuters, should the situation calls for it,” said Aberin.
“The NCRPO also urges the public to stay calm, cooperative, and vigilant throughout the duration of the protest actions,” he added.