A major transport strike is anticipated to cause significant disruptions for commuters and drivers in Cebu today, as members of the Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston) Cebu chapter participate in a nationwide protest. The strike, organized by the transport group, is expected to involve up to 100 drivers, leading to potential delays and long queues for passengers across key areas.
Strike Details and Participation
Greg Perez, chairman of Piston Cebu, confirmed the participation via a message to SunStar Cebu on Monday, April 20, 2026. He stated that drivers joining the strike will cover routes in Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue, and Cebu City, including Talamban, Guadalupe, and Labangon. This action follows a previous strike on March 19, 2026, where members marched from MJ Cuenco Avenue to Osmeña Boulevard in Cebu City, demanding a P5 fare increase and the removal of excise tax and VAT on fuel.
Economic Grievances and Demands
In a Facebook post, Piston Cebu highlighted that recent fuel price rollbacks have been insufficient compared to previous increases, leaving consumers burdened by high costs for goods and services. The group argues that the public continues to suffer from rising prices and worsening food insecurity, calling for unity against the ongoing crisis and stronger government action.
Perez emphasized in a past interview that the previously suspended fare hike—a P1 increase for traditional jeepneys and P2 for modern jeepneys—was inadequate to address soaring fuel prices. He described this adjustment as an insult to drivers and operators, underscoring the need for more substantial support.
Ongoing Advocacy and Future Calls
The transport group in Cebu continues to push for the rights of jeepney drivers, advocating for higher fares, subsidies, and the suspension of the consolidation mandate. As the strike unfolds, commuters are advised to plan ahead for potential travel disruptions, with images from March 27, 2026, showing long passenger lines at Parkmall Terminal in Mandaue City during a similar protest.
This strike reflects broader economic challenges faced by transport workers, highlighting the urgent need for policy changes to alleviate financial pressures in the sector.
