By Nimfa L. Estrellado Transport continues in Pagbilao after the strike was averted, as the local government urges support for drivers facin...
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| Transport continues in Pagbilao after the strike was averted, as the local government urges support for drivers facing higher fuel prices. (JIAP) |
PAGBILAO, Quezon — Support for transport workers was reaffirmed as Mayor Angelica Portes spoke about how rising fuel prices are affecting drivers’ daily income. She called on the public to extend voluntary assistance to those affected in the sector.
Improved talks between transport groups and the local government led to the cancellation of a planned transport strike. Public transport operations will continue as usual, while the previously prepared “Libreng Sakay” program will no longer be carried out.
In a public statement, Portes acknowledged the continuing livelihood challenges faced by drivers even after the strike was called off. She said the high cost of fuel remains a serious problem for many in the transport sector.
“Batid nating lahat na ang patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng produktong petrolyo ay isang mabigat na hamon para sa ating mga drayber. Sa kabila nito, nananatili silang tapat sa itinakdang pamasahe upang patuloy na makapaglingkod sa ating mga kababayan,” Portes said.
She encouraged passengers in Pagbilao to take part in a “bayanihan” effort by giving small, voluntary contributions on top of the regular fare. Even a small amount, she said, can help drivers cover daily expenses while waiting for action from national agencies.
“Kung kayo ay may kaunting labis, ang pagbibigay ng dagdag na barya ay malaking tulong na upang maitawid nila ang pangangailangan ng kanilang pamilya. Ang anumang dagdag na halaga ay kusang-loob lamang at hindi sapilitan,” she added.
Portes also assured transport workers that the local government is preparing financial assistance to help ease their burden. The support aims to reduce the impact of rising fuel prices while making sure transport services in the town continue without disruption.
Local officials said that even if the strike has been canceled, the concerns raised by drivers are still not fully resolved. They added that talks with national agencies are ongoing to find more lasting solutions, especially on fares and fuel costs.
The local government again called for unity, saying that community support can help drivers in the meantime. Officials said their goal is to keep transport running while also helping drivers cope with rising expenses.
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