Original Source
Philippines Transport Workers Strike Over Soaring Fuel Costs
Fuel Price Hike and Strike Background
Hundreds of transport workers in Manila, the capital of the Philippines, have gone on strike in protest of rapidly increasing fuel costs. Since the outbreak of the Iran war on February 28, diesel and petrol prices have more than doubled, leading the Philippine government to declare a national energy emergency. A 62-year-old driver expressed desperation, stating he had no food to support his five children and had not received government cash aid.
Government Response and Protester Demands
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos announced efforts to secure new oil sources. The transport union coalition Piston, leading the strikes, laid out extensive demands, including scrapping fuel taxes, rolling back oil prices, abandoning deregulation, and introducing state controls. They are also pushing for fare increases and higher wages. Protesters gathered across the capital on Thursday morning, urging more government support, with jeepney drivers forming a significant portion. Some demonstrators reported not receiving the promised 5,000 pesos in cash aid from the government.
*Source: BBC (2026-03-26)*
