Mayor Benjamin Magalong ordered the implementation of contingency measures to ensure availability of transportation for commuters in case the reported week-long transport strike affects the city.
This as the Baguio-Benguet Jeepney Federation and at least 16 jeepney trunk lines gave assurance through the Baguio City Police Officethat they will not join the planned “tigil-pasada” planned starting March 6.
The mayor lauded the federation and the associations for prioritizing public service over their personal interests.
He nonetheless sought stand by vehicles for commuters to ferry passengers in case some trunklines that did not give commitment decide to join the protest.
In his report to the mayor, BCPO Director Col. Francisco Bulwayan Jr. said they were in touch with transport groups which might have issues on the jeepney modernization program.
He said the fede-ration president Wilson Bumay-et, Jr. in a statement said they “strongly go against the call of other transport groups nationwide to resort to a strike.”
“The plan to do so demeans the principle of public service which does not only mean providing public transportation on our part but also providing health to those in need. As providers of essential services at a rate where the public can afford, the continuity of our service is of much importance than the recognition or compensation we may receive,” the statement read.
“The Baguio-Benguet Jeepney Federation will not support any actions that may put the livelihood and safety not only of our operators and drivers but also of the riding public at risk.”
The federation is said to represent almost 95 percent of jeepney associations within Baguio City and Benguet. – Aileen P. Refuerzo
April 27, 2024
