PNP Reports 'Generally Orderly' Transport Strike Amid Free Ride Initiatives
The ongoing two-day transport strike across the Philippines has been characterized as "generally orderly" by the Philippine National Police (PNP), despite some scattered minor disruptions. Assessing the first day of the protest action on Thursday, March 26, 2026, the PNP described the overall situation as manageable and under control.
Police Deployment and Public Safety Measures
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that no major untoward incidents were monitored during the strike. "We did not monitor any major untoward incident. There were some minor disruptions but this was immediately resolved through proper communication initiated by our personnel on the ground," Nartatez stated in an official release. He attributed the orderly environment to the strategic deployment of police officers in identified protest hotspots, noting that police visibility helps deter incidents and encourages discipline among the public.
For the second day of the strike, Nartatez confirmed that police units nationwide have been instructed to maintain a strong presence in protest areas to prevent any potential issues. In Metro Manila alone, authorities mobilized nearly 9,000 police personnel and 400 vehicles to ensure peace and order throughout the urban center.
Government Response and Commuter Assistance
In response to the transport strike, government agencies implemented contingency measures to assist affected commuters. This included the deployment of "Libreng Sakay" (free ride) programs, where vehicles from agencies like the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Philippine National Police were used to provide transportation along designated routes. For instance, in Quezon City, passengers were seen boarding patrol vehicles for free rides on Thursday, helping mitigate the impact of reduced public transportation.
The strike was launched by transport groups to pressure the government for relief amid continued increases in fuel costs. The protest led to reduced public transportation in several urban centers, prompting the swift government action to support commuters. The PNP's assessment highlights a coordinated effort between law enforcement and other agencies to manage the protest while minimizing disruption to daily life.
