The nationwide transport strike on Monday (16 Oct 2023) rolled out as planned by the Manibela Transport Group, culminating with a protest rally on the historic Mendiola Bridge in Legarda, Manila, where around 200 individuals and 50 vehicles participated.
The demonstrators called on the Marcos administration to address the alleged corruption within the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and demanded an extension of the deadline for the mandatory jeepney consolidation under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization program.
However, in Metro Manila, the nationwide transport strike had minimal impact on public transport operations, as noted by MMDA Chair Romando Artes. He also emphasized that the first day of the strike on Monday did not significantly disrupt public transportation services.
Visuals from the rally show protesters waving large banners, with members of the Manila Police District present to maintain order on the ground.
(Report & photography by Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
