Business group grateful for early end of transport strike

The Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) is thankful that the local transport groups in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental have decided to end their strike a day early.

The strike ended late Monday afternoon after an agreement was reached between the transport operators and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to hold talks in order to address issues such as the incessant oil price hikes, and the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization act.

MBCCI Chief Executive Officer Frank Carbon said that they were not affected by the strike as most of their customers belong to the “middle class” and therefore have no problems with transportation.

However, Carbon said the strike clearly affected those belonging to the “working class” who rely on PUVs such as jeepneys in order to go to work or go to the market to buy their needs.

Carbon said he is thankful that the transport sector decided to return to their regular operations today, adding that the sector now have a way to air their sentiments to the government without further worsening the commuting public’s situation.

Earlier on Monday afternoon, transport groups led by the United Negros Drivers and Operators Center (UNDOC) ended their transport holiday after Bacolod City Congressman Greg Gasataya and House Minority Leader Congressman Stephen Paduano mediated with the groups.

During the meeting it was agreed that the local transport group will have the chance to talk with the LTFRB with regards to their demands.

UNDOC and the other transport groups in the province have been demanding an end to both 12 percent value added tax on fuels and excise tax also on fuels.* (DGB)