Manibela Announces 3-Day Transport Strike Starting Tomorrow Over Fuel Crisis
The transport group Manibela is set to launch a three-day strike beginning tomorrow, Tuesday, April 21, and continuing through Wednesday, April 22. This action comes as drivers continue to grapple with the heavy burden imposed by the ongoing oil crisis, which has severely impacted their livelihoods and operational costs.
Strike Aims to Pressure Government on Tax Policies
According to Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena, the group is organizing this new strike to pressure the government into addressing what they describe as excessive taxation and exploitation of the public. Valbuena emphasized that the strike is a direct response to the failure of authorities to alleviate the financial strain on transport workers, who are struggling with rising fuel prices.
In a strong statement, Valbuena called for an immediate halt to what he termed as abuse and wasteful spending by the government. He argued that the true price of petroleum should be set at P50 to P60 per liter, claiming this reflects the actual cost paid for oil shipments. This demand highlights the group's frustration with current market rates, which they believe are inflated due to government policies.
Demands for Tax Removal on Fuel Products
Valbuena further stressed the need to eliminate excise taxes and value-added taxes on diesel and gasoline. He pointed out that these taxes are being collected at what he called excessively high and unreasonable rates, exacerbating the financial woes of drivers and the general public. The removal of these taxes, according to Manibela, would provide much-needed relief and help stabilize transport operations during this crisis.
The strike is expected to disrupt public transportation services across the nation, potentially affecting commuters and businesses reliant on smooth logistics. Manibela's move underscores the growing discontent among transport sectors as they face mounting pressures from economic challenges and policy decisions.
As the strike unfolds, all eyes will be on how the government responds to these demands, with potential implications for future transport policies and economic stability in the region.
