LTFRB chairman Vigor D. Mendoza II holds a dialogue with protesting members of transport group Manibela. (photo: LTFRB)
Police recorded no untoward incidents during the three-day nationwide strike of transport group Manibela which started on Monday, Oct. 13.
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said the situation was peaceful and orderly in Metro Manila and other areas where the strike was held.
“The situation was generally peaceful and manageable. Our police units continue to maintain visibility in key transport terminals and major routes to ensure the safety of commuters and the smooth flow of traffic,” said Nartatez.
Police forces were tapped to secure the three-day transport strike to ensure the unhampered mobility of the public and maintain peace and order during the conduct of legitimate protest actions.
The transportation strike was held in Quezon City and provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon.
The group expressed concern over the apprehensions of jeepney drivers and the steep fines imposed against public utility vehicle (PUV) workers.
Manibela was also demanding the abolition of the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation, a task group created by the Department of Transportation.
Nartatez said police forces worked closely with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and local government units to monitor affected routes and assist commuters throughout the strike.
Nartatez lauded police personnel for their diligence and professionalism in managing the situation.
“I commend our men and women on the ground for ensuring that peace and order were upheld without any confrontation or escalation. This demonstrates our commitment to upholding both public safety and the people’s right to peaceful assembly,” he added.
Nartatez further reminded transport groups that while the PNP respects their right to air grievances, all protest actions must be conducted peacefully and in accordance with the law.
As normal operations resume, Nartatez said the PNP will remain on alert and ready to respond to any situation that may affect public order and safety.