BY: Chito Chavez
A transport group expressed willingness to face stiff sanctions when they pursue a two-day strike next week in protest of the planned phase-out of old passenger jeepneys.
George San Mateo, national president of the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) opted to defy the government’s order, saying their group will hold a transport holiday on December 4 and 5.
As it issued a stern warning, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said jeepney drivers and operators stand to face the cancellation of their franchises and licenses if they join the protests.
Earlier, Malacañang cautioned the jeepney operators that they would face “legal consequences” if they inconvenience the public due to their protests.
Even President Duterte asked transport groups to abide by the public utility vehicle modernization program by yearend or run the risk of having their old jeepney units towed.
