Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed the strategic deployment of police personnel to ensure peace and order during the three-day nationwide transport strike set this week. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Tuesday said he ordered local police units to maintain strong visibility in key convergence areas where transport groups are expected to assemble from Wednesday to Friday. He also directed police offices to prepare mobility assets that will provide free rides or "Libreng Sakay" for affected commuters.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez emphasized the PNP's commitment to balancing the right of transport groups to conduct peaceful assemblies with the safety and convenience of the commuting public. "While we respect the right of transport groups to air their grievances through peaceful assembly, we are equally committed to ensuring the safety and convenience of the commuting public," Nartatez said in a statement. "Our personnel will be deployed not only to maintain peace and order but also to provide immediate assistance, including 'Libreng Sakay,' to those who will be affected by the transport strike," he added. Nartatez stressed that maximum tolerance will be observed throughout the duration of the strike.

At a press briefing Tuesday, PNP-Highway Patrol Group spokesperson Lt. Nadame Malang detailed the deployment strategy, stating that around 501 personnel will be assigned to about 60 locations nationwide to monitor and help direct traffic during the protest activity. In addition to personnel, 139 motorcycles and 97 cars will also be deployed, he said.

The nationwide strike will be led by transport group MANIBELA in response to the continuing rise in fuel prices. The group said an estimated 500,000 jeepneys and other public utility vehicles are expected to join the protest, with the main convergence point set at Philcoa in Quezon City.