In the Philippines’ capital, a wave of discontent is building among drivers of jeepneys, buses and other public utility vehicles (PUVs). The rapid climb of diesel to P110 per litre – a level driven by global oil market volatility – has forced transport operators to reckon with earnings that no longer cover basic expenses. In response, the coalition known as Manibela has announced a three-day nationwide strike slated for Sept. 28 to 30, 2026, marking the latest episode of labor unrest sparked by fuel price spikes.
Manibela calls for a three-day nationwide strike
Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena issued a media advisory on Wednesday, condemning what he described as the Department of Energy’s (DOE) “inaction” in the face of soaring oil costs. Valbuena highlighted that the surge has eroded the daily wages of jeepney drivers and operators, leaving many below a living wage. The strike will be the second large-scale action this year; a previous two-day walkout occurred on Sept. 14-15, also over fuel-related pressures. By mobilising thousands of drivers across the archipelago, Manibela hopes to force immediate government intervention, urging that subsidies be broadened beyond the current limited scope.
Government agencies outline subsidies and fare-hike options
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez responded that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is actively exploring measures to soften the blow on both drivers and commuters. He referenced ongoing initiatives such as a fuel discount that has risen from P10 to P12 though it presently benefits only a select group of jeepneys and utility-vehicle (UV) Express services. Lopez indicated that the LTFRB, the DOTr’s attached regulatory board, continues to receive petitions for fare adjustments, yet cautioned that any increase could feed the nation’s already high inflation rate of 6.1%. “We will absorb as much as possible through subsidies and various initiatives,” he said, stressing that a fare hike remains a last resort.
Other transport groups join the protest
Beyond Manibela, the transport federation Piston announced its own strike for Sept. 29-30, aligning with labor and urban-poor organisations. Piston president Mody Floranda echoed the sentiment that oil price hikes are untenable for drivers who already contend with rising taxes and operational costs. The combined actions of Manibela and Piston signal a coordinated front that could significantly disrupt commuter traffic in Manila and surrounding provinces. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered that the concerns of transport workers and commuters be addressed promptly, reinforcing the pressure on the DOE and DOTr to deliver more expansive relief.
As the country’s capital prepares for a possible three-day shutdown of public transport, commuters are being urged to plan alternative routes and to remain patient. The outcome of the strike could set a precedent for how the Philippine government tackles future spikes in global oil prices, balancing the need for affordable mobility with fiscal constraints.
