Jeepney drivers go on strike

Philippine transport groups launched a nationwide strike yesterday to protest a government program drivers fear would phase out traditional jeepneys, which have become a cultural icon, and other aging public transport vehicles.

Officials, however, deployed government vehicles to take stranded passengers in some areas. Other groups refused to join the week-long strike that could keep more than 40,000 passenger jeepneys and vans off the streets in the Manila metropolis alone.

Protesting drivers and supporters held a noisy rally in suburban Quezon city in the capital region, then proceeded in a convoy to a government transport regulatory office to press their protest.

Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista said no major transport disruption had been monitored and morning rush-hour traffic was heavy as usual in Manila and nearby cities.

The government aims to replace dangerously dilapidated and old jeepneys and vans with modern vehicles, which have safety features and conform with carbon emissions standards. Vehicle owners have to join transport cooperatives and corporations by year's end for better transport management.

Opponents say most poor drivers could not afford to purchase new passenger jeepneys even with promised government financial aid.