Hundreds forced to seek commuting alternatives
By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

After earlier indicating yesterday’s transport strike was being conducted in opposition to the transport modernization program proposed by the President Rodrigo Duterte administration, demonstrators yesterday took aim at rising oil prices and the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law.
United Negros Drivers and Operators Center Secretary-General Diego Malacad said oil hikes are a result of “oil cartels” that have a monopoly on the resource and accused the Duterte administration of “conniving” with them.
He also discussed the TRAIN Law, which he called “anti-people.”
Meanwhile, in terms of the modernization program, wherein jeepneys will be required to upgrade to Euro-4 quality, which refers to vehicles being in compliance with European emission standards, the transport sector advocate claimed the industry is not prepared to execute such a change.
“Almost 80 to 90 percent of operators nationwide cannot afford those types of vehicles.” Malacad said.
He suggested the government support a “rehabilitation program.”
Amid the strike, hundreds of commuters were affected yesterday morning as they were forced to find alternative means of transportation such as hiring tricycles or taxis. Although, a few jeepneys ignored the strike and continued service throughout the day.
Tensions flared when a particular transport company in the city provided free rides. Protesting transport groups responded by forcing them to stop operating and ordered passengers out of the vehicle. Some passengers confronted the protesters, complaining that the way they blocked and slammed their hands on the vehicles were scaring the elderly and children.
Police later arrived to intervene./DGB, WDJ