Baguio City: It was business as usual for drivers and operators of public utility vehicles (PUV) here on Monday amid the start of a three-day nationwide transport strike set by groups opposed to the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP). In a joint statement, 16 transport cooperatives and corporations operating in Baguio City and nearby areas voiced their support to the government’s PUVMP.

According to Philippines News Agency, the groups expressed their unified stance saying, “United we stand in support to modernize the transport system in the Cordilleras.” While they are in favor of the PUVMP and have shunned the transport strike, they also expressed support for the strike organizers’ call for improvements in the transport sector. They stated, “Sa pagsuporta sa programa ng modernisasyon hindi naming tinalikuran ang ating sector bagkos ay pinanghahawakan ng mahigpit ang sulo ng pagsulong ng interest ng ating sector (By supporting the modernization program, we are not turning our backs to our sector but instead working harder to further its interest).”

The statement of support was submitted to the LTFRB-Cordillera office on Monday afternoon. Rey Bacoco, president of the Federation of Cordillera Van Associations, emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving issues, noting that strikes are not favored as they mainly affect commuters and passengers. Bacoco highlighted that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is always receptive to discussions aimed at addressing concerns in the transport sector.