Ask Onix
Manila transport workers strike over soaring fuel costs
Hundreds of drivers in the Philippine capital launched a two-day strike Thursday, protesting fuel prices that have more than doubled since late February amid regional tensions. The walkout disrupted commutes in one of Asia's most congested cities, where workers say government aid has failed to reach them.
Drivers describe desperate conditions
Jeepney driver Guillermo Japole, 62, told reporters he spent over five hours in line for promised cash assistance but was turned away. "No cash aid, no earnings, no food for the family," he said. Japole, whose five children attend school, faces eviction from his rental home.
Anjo Lilac, 28, brought his infant daughter to protests after his wife took temporary work. "We need the aid for food, rent, and milk," he said. Others, like 30-year veteran Ronnie Rillosa, 58, threatened to abandon Manila for jobs in provinces. "We're being choked," Rillosa said. "We don't need aid if the government cuts fuel, food, and utility prices."
Government responds with emergency measures
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a national energy emergency Tuesday, granting authorities power to stabilize supplies. The move followed a shipment of 700,000 barrels of Russian crude-part of efforts to diversify imports after the Iran conflict disrupted 98% of the country's Strait of Hormuz-dependent oil flows.
Marcos also signed a law allowing temporary suspension of fuel excise taxes if Dubai crude prices exceed $80 per barrel for a month. Earlier measures included subsidies for drivers, reduced ferry services, and a four-day workweek for civil servants to conserve fuel.
Criticism and corporate concerns
The labor coalition Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) condemned the emergency declaration as an admission of policy failure, accusing the government of downplaying the crisis. KMU warned that executive order clauses could restrict strikes and other "disruptive" activities.
Meanwhile, business leader Manuel V. Pangilinan, who chairs major utilities, supported the emergency powers but cautioned that rising costs were straining operations. "The government should have every option to navigate this difficult period," he said.
Strike disrupts Manila commutes
Protesters blocked key routes Thursday, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Arnold Irinco, 52, waited 30 minutes for a government-provided ride. "I understand their fight," he said. "They have families to feed."
Transport groups demanded sweeping reforms, including scrapping fuel taxes, reintroducing price controls, and raising fares and wages. The strike is set to end Friday, but leaders warned of further actions if demands go unmet.
