Transport groups in Bacolod City are gearing up for a potential five-day strike in December to protest the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
Rudy Catedral, president of the Bacolod Alliance of Commuters, Operators, and Drivers (BACOD), announced that traditional jeepney operators will stage two-day protest rallies on November 29 and 30.
If the government fails to address their concerns regarding the PUVMP, a five-day strike may follow.
Catedral said a rally will be staged on November 29 at the Magsaysay and Bata flyovers, and another on Bonifacio Day, November 30, at the City Government Center replica.
The transport groups argue that the PUVMP’s strict deadline of November 30 could lead to the apprehension of many traditional jeepney operators who have not yet complied with the modernization program. They fear that this could disrupt public transportation and negatively impact commuters.
The transport groups are calling on the government to extend the deadline for the PUVMP and provide more support to operators who are struggling to comply with the new regulations.
