Manila: Several transport groups have decided to call off their planned transport strike following discussions with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), which has laid out measures to support drivers and operators amid rising oil prices due to the conflict in the Middle East. This decision aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to assist sectors most affected by the oil price hike.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOTr Acting Secretary Giovanni Lopez announced that the agency will continue to explore ways to support the public transport sector and commuters. Lopez emphasized the government's commitment to not passing the burden onto the commuting public but instead having the national government shoulder it.

Pasang Masda national president Roberto Martin expressed gratitude for the government's intervention and confirmed that their planned strikes for Friday and Monday have been canceled. He highlighted the increased fuel subsidy from PHP10 to PHP12 per liter as a key factor in their decision.

ALTODAP president Melencio Vargas also thanked Lopez, noting that the transport sector no longer needs to halt operations, which would have primarily affected passengers. FEJODAP president Deo Sotto echoed this sentiment, citing continuous assistance from Lopez and LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza II as reasons for not joining the strike.

Other groups, including BUSINA, ACTO, and Stop and Go, have similarly canceled their plans to join the strike. Manibela chairperson Mar Valbuena, after a separate meeting with Lopez, mentioned that their group will deliberate on whether to proceed with their Monday strike.

On Thursday, Malaca±ang and the DOTr announced several measures, including increased fuel subsidies, support for the Public Transport Modernization Program, and the inclusion of transport drivers in the government's UPLIFT cash assistance program. The DOTr also waived toll fees for provincial buses on major expressways and extended terminal fee waivers at various locations.