'Sagot namin kayo': PNP assures safety of PUV drivers not joining transport strike
Members of transport group PISTON (Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide) hold a noise barrage in front of the Pasig City public market on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 as part of the three-day strike against rising oil prices. (John Louie Abrina)
A number of transport groups have declared their intention not to join the three-day transport strike and the Philippine National Police (PNP) wants to ensure that they will not be threatened and harassed.
At the start of the transport strike on Wednesday, April 15, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said police personnel will be strategically deployed along major routes and transport hubs to ensure that non-striking drivers and operators can continue their livelihood without fear of harassment or disruption.
“Our priority is the safety and welfare of the transport sector and commuters. Our personnel on the ground will observe maximum tolerance but we will not allow any act of violence, intimidation, or disruption of public safety during the conduct of this strike,” said Nartatez.
Transport groups Manibela and Piston announced a nationwide transport strike from April 15 to 17 in response to rising fuel prices and its continuing impact on the income of drivers and operators.
They also raised concerns that existing discount schemes are not enough to offset mounting operational costs in the transport sector.
Nartatez emphasized that while the PNP respects the right of transport groups to air their grievances, law enforcement will not tolerate any form of violence or intimidation during the protest period.
“Our deployment is not against anyone. It is purely intended for peace and order that comes with the protection of non-participating drivers from possible threats and intimidation,” he said.
Nartatez said the PNP will coordinate closely with local government units and transport agencies to monitor affected routes and maintain order in critical transport corridors.
Police units will also engage with transport groups to help ensure that activities remain peaceful and properly managed.
To assist commuters who may be affected by limited transport availability, the PNP will deploy additional vehicles under its Libreng Sakay program, “ I also instructed concerned police units to work with the LTFRB and the MMDA and determine which areas or routes need additional vehicles for free rides to accommodate more commuters and passengers.”