Manibela Threatens Wider Transport Strike Amidst Government Commitments

MANILA, Philippines – Transport advocacy group Manibela is warning of a potentially larger transport strike if the government does not follow through on promises made to drivers and operators. The group, boasting a membership of approximately 180,000 across various transport sectors, is currently holding off on further action while awaiting government response.

According to Manibela Chairman Mar Valbuena, the group refrained from joining transport strikes held on Thursday and Friday, opting to deliver the government time to address their concerns. “We will only stage a strike if nothing really comes out of what the government has been promising,” Valbuena stated in an exclusive text message to The Manila Times.

A future protest, Valbuena indicated, could involve members beyond jeepney drivers, including those from the TNVS (Transport Network Vehicle Service) and UV Express sectors. “Yes, they will all join together, including the TNVS and UV Express members who are part of our group,” he said.

The potential strike follows recent action by PISTON and other allied groups, who staged a two-day transport strike in protest of rising fuel prices and the suspension of planned fare increases.

Recent Legal Issues for Manibela Chairman

Manibela Chairman Mar Valbuena is currently facing legal challenges. A Pasig City court has ordered his arrest on cyber libel charges filed by Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista as reported by Rappler. The charges stem from Valbuena’s remarks regarding alleged corruption within the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The Department of Justice (DOJ) previously recommended filing libel charges against Valbuena for his defamatory statements against Secretary Bautista according to the Philippine Star. The DOJ found that Valbuena’s claims of bribery related to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) constituted libel.

Previous Disruptions and Charges

In May 2024, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) filed criminal charges against Valbuena and two associates, Reggie Manlapig and Alvin Reyes, for disrupting public order during a protest rally at the Batasang Pambansa as reported by TV5. The protest was conducted without the necessary permit.