Transport Strike Halts Cotabato City Operations, Drivers Demand P5 Fare Increase
A significant transport strike commenced in Cotabato City today, March 23, 2026, as multiple transport groups initiated a protest action to voice their grievances against local government authorities. The strike, which began at 7:00 AM and is scheduled to last until 5:00 PM, will persist through March 25, 2026, creating substantial disruptions to the city's public transportation network.
Protest Leaders Highlight Longstanding Neglect
In an exclusive interview, Khaddafy Macapendeg, Barangay Kagawad of RH 8 and Chairperson of the Notre Dame Village Operators Transport Cooperative, articulated the core motivations behind the protest. He emphasized that the transport sector has faced persistent disregard from local government officials, with no substantial assistance provided to operators despite ongoing economic challenges.
Macapendeg stated that the primary objective of the strike is to draw government attention to the plight of transport operators, who have been struggling with operational costs without adequate support. The protest aims to compel immediate action from authorities to address these critical issues.
Fare Hike Proposal Amid Soaring Fuel Prices
Concurrent with the transport strike, the protesting groups have formally proposed a P5 fare increase for public transportation services. This demand is directly linked to the continuous surge in fuel prices, which has severely impacted the profitability and sustainability of transport operations.
The fare hike is seen as a necessary adjustment to help operators cope with escalating expenses, ensuring they can maintain their services without incurring unsustainable losses. The groups argue that without this increase, many operators may be forced to cease operations altogether, further exacerbating transportation woes in the region.
Police Intervention to Mitigate Passenger Impact
Despite the widespread disruption caused by the strike, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has taken proactive measures to assist affected commuters. Several patrol cars have been deployed to provide free rides, aiming to minimize the inconvenience faced by passengers who rely on public transportation for their daily activities.
This temporary solution is intended to prevent a complete breakdown of mobility in Cotabato City, though it is not a long-term fix for the underlying issues driving the protest. The PNP's intervention highlights the urgency of the situation and the need for swift governmental response.
Anticipated Long-Term Effects on City Transport
The ongoing strike is expected to have profound effects on Cotabato City's transportation infrastructure in the coming days. With operators steadfast in their demands, the city may experience prolonged disruptions unless government authorities engage in meaningful dialogue and take concrete actions to address the sector's concerns.
Transport groups continue to call for immediate government intervention, stressing that without prompt attention, the strike could lead to broader economic and social repercussions. The situation remains fluid, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments as the protest unfolds.
