As the three-day transport strike rolled off Monday, Metro Manila experienced a noticeable decrease in the presence of public utility vehicles, stranding in the process hundreds if not thousands of commuters.
However, in response to the situation, local government units of Metro Manila like the City of Man (Manila), deployed vehicles to offer free rides to stranded commuters, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police.
Colonel Jean Fajardo, spokesperson for the PNP, announced earlier on Sunday that the PNP designated 920 vehicles on standby, in addition to the “Libreng Sakay” vehicles provided by various LGUs.
Photographs captured the challenges faced by commuters in Agoncillo Street, Manila, as they struggled to secure rides on E-Trikes to reach their destinations.
(Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)
(Photo by B. cuaresma)
In the face of a citywide transport strike, both public and private schools in Manila maintained their class schedules on Monday.
However, adapting to the transportation disruption, some institutions opted for online learning solutions.
The Manila Public Information Office (MPIO) reported the deployment of 122 vehicles by the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau, and Manila Police District to aid stranded commuters.
To further assist the affected populace, the Oplan Libreng Sakay command center, situated at the Kartilya ng Katipunan beside Manila City Hall, was activated.
Mayor Honey Lacuna emphasized that the Oplan Libreng Sakay initiative aims to support commuters, particularly during peak traffic hours.
Importantly, she directed that the plan should not hinder public transport vehicles not participating in the strike from earning their income.
(ai/mnm)