Transport group Piston has declared a nationwide transport strike scheduled for Thursday, March 19, 2026, in response to the sharp surge in fuel prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The strike will not be limited to the National Capital Region but will extend across the entire country, mobilizing drivers, operators, and the public in a unified protest.
Protest Against Government Inaction and US Aggression
In a press conference, Piston national president Mody Floranda emphasized that the strike aims to challenge what he described as the incompetence of the Bongbong Marcos administration and US aggression, which he claims are causing significant hardship for Filipino citizens. Floranda stated, "This coming March 19, we will declare and launch—not only in the National Capital Region but across the entire country—a protest and strike to be led by drivers, operators, and the public against the incompetence of the Bongbong Marcos administration and against US aggression, which is causing hardship for the Filipino people."
Demands for Fare Increase and Policy Changes
Alongside the strike, Piston plans to file a formal petition with the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) seeking a P5 fare increase. This move is intended to help drivers offset income losses resulting from recent substantial oil price hikes. The group has also criticized the government's P5,000 fuel subsidy, labeling it a mere band-aid solution that fails to address the root causes of the crisis.
Floranda further argued against granting President Marcos special powers to mitigate the looming oil crisis, instead proposing more structural reforms. He called for the scrapping of the Oil Deregulation Law and the suspension of excise taxes, which he asserts place a heavy burden on the transport sector. These measures, he believes, would provide more effective relief than temporary subsidies or emergency powers.
Police Coordination for Peaceful Protest
In response to the planned strike, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño confirmed that authorities are already coordinating with transport groups to ensure the protest action proceeds peacefully. This coordination aims to maintain public order and safety during the nationwide demonstration, reflecting efforts to balance protest rights with security concerns.
The strike highlights growing tensions over economic policies and international conflicts impacting local livelihoods, with Piston urging immediate government action to alleviate the financial strain on transport workers and the broader population.
