The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) has deployed police personnel along major roads and strategic areas in Metro Cebu as transport groups stage a strike on September 29.
CCPO Deputy City Director for Operations Lt. Col. Gerard Ace Pelare said the police deployment is intended to maintain peace and provide security for commuters and protesters, rather than prevent the transport groups from holding their activities.
The transport strike was announced by the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston) Cebu, with participating drivers expected to suspend operations from 7 a.m. until the afternoon.
Several protest programs were scheduled at designated areas, including LandBank along P. del Rosario Street, Andoks in Mabolo, Petron Gas Station in Cabancalan and Pacific Mall in Mandaue City. Another gathering was planned along Colon Street at 11 a.m.
Pelare said police respect the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. He urged participants to conduct the demonstrations peacefully and avoid actions that could infringe on the rights of other people.
Police are also monitoring ports, terminals and other locations where large crowds could gather. Authorities said the deployment is intended to help ensure that commuters and workers who are not participating in the strike can continue traveling safely.
The strike comes amid continued concerns over fuel prices, drivers’ income and government policies affecting the public transport sector. Piston Cebu has said the recent fare increases—P1 for traditional jeepneys and P2 for modern public utility vehicles—do not address its broader demands.
Meanwhile, Cebu City has prepared free bus services as a contingency for commuters who may be affected by the strike. Six city buses were scheduled to operate on routes connecting Bulacao, Guadalupe and Talamban with Colon, with additional assistance for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, pregnant passengers and other vulnerable commuters.
With police deployed and alternative transportation placed on standby, authorities are continuing to monitor traffic, public transportation and protest areas throughout the strike period.
