A TRANSPORT strike was held in Bacolod City on Wednesday, April 15. (Photo via The Technopacer-Alijis)
BACOLOD CITY – Around 1,000 Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) joined the transport strike here on Wednesday, April 15, over the fuel price increases from the Middle East tension.
Rallies were held in four areas, including the Bata flyover and Magsaysay flyover. Protesters converged at the public plaza for a program.
Rudy Catedral, president of the Bacolod Alliance of Commuters, Operators, and Drivers Inc.-Manibela, said some drivers did not join the protest but this will not stop them from airing their sentiments and calling for government actions on their concerns.
The Kabakod Negros Transport Coalition Inc. (KNETCO) also held separate rallies in the city.
The transport sector here also held rallies last month due to the global oil crisis.
Mayor Greg Gasataya called on strikers to always conduct their activities peacefully.
“We appeal to our fellow citizens who participated in the transport strike to express their concerns peacefully. Everyone has the right to voice their stand and advocate for issues they believe in,” Gasataya said.
The city government has provided at least 12 vehicles, including a bus, for free rides for stranded commuters.
Gasataya added that government operations continued amid the strike. The city government assured the public of their continued efforts to maintain order and provide essential services.