The Philippine President responded to the end of the country’s transport strike before the strike’s scheduled end date.

The upgrading of public utility vehicles (PUVs) in the Philippines is one of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) projects. The phase-out of public cars that are at least 15 years old is part of the plan.

Many transportation groups have banded together and went on strike to protest the government’s modernization plan. They initially planned a week-long transportation strike, which would have a significant impact on commuters.

President  Bongbong Marcos indicated that the consolidation deadline will be extended until December. He feels it will give him enough opportunity to fix the system.

“Maganda ang aming usapan. Nag-postpone tayo [ng consolidation] hanggang December… Sa tingin ko sapat na panahon na yun para ayusin natin ang sistema sa pagpalit ng ating mga jeepney,” President Bongbong Marcos stated.