CAPIZ — Jeepney drivers in Roxas City, Capiz are grappling with mounting financial difficulties as fuel prices continue to rise, a situation worsened by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Randy Ramos, a jeepney driver plying the Dao–Cuartero route, said in a local radio interview that his daily earnings have dropped to as low as P300, underscoring the impact of escalating fuel costs on drivers’ livelihoods.
Ramos noted that while the government has implemented a fuel subsidy program, it remains insufficient to cover their daily operating expenses.
Many in the transport sector fear that continued increases in fuel prices may eventually force them to stop operating altogether, reflecting growing concerns over the sustainability of their livelihood.
Ramos appealed to the government to take immediate action to address rising fuel costs, which directly affect their ability to earn a living.
Amid these challenges, the Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON-Capiz), a coalition of local drivers and operators, has scheduled a transport strike on March 26 and 27.
Joebert Carandang, chairman of PISTON-Capiz, said in a separate interview that while not all members may participate, the strike will proceed as planned.
Carandang outlined the group’s demands, including the repeal of the Oil Deregulation Law, which he said would allow the government to better regulate fuel prices and provide relief to both drivers and commuters.
He also called for the suspension of excise taxes on fuel and a reduction of gasoline prices to P55 per liter to help ease the financial burden on the transport sector.
The planned strike highlights the growing frustration among drivers and operators, as many struggle to cope with rising fuel costs that threaten their primary source of income./PN
