Hundreds of transport workers in Manila have launched a strike to protest the rising cost of fuel. Diesel and petrol prices in the Philippines have more than doubled since the start of the Iran war on February 28, prompting the government to declare a national energy emergency.
One 62-year-old driver described the crisis as desperate, saying he had no food for his five children and had not received any cash aid from authorities.
The strike began on Thursday, coinciding with the arrival of a ship carrying over 700,000 barrels of Russian crude oil. Press Secretary Claire Castro confirmed the Sierra Leone-flagged vessel Sara Sky delivered the shipment. President Ferdinand Marcos has vowed to secure new oil sources, as the Philippines relies on supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz for 98% of its needs.
Workers’ Demands
The transport coalitions leading the strike have issued broad demands, including:
- Eliminating fuel taxes
- Rolling back oil prices
- Abandoning deregulation
- Introducing state controls
- Increasing fares and wages
Protesters gathered across Manila, holding signs and urging the government to act. Jeepney drivers, motorcycle operators, and ride-hailing drivers joined the demonstrations, highlighting the impact of rising costs on daily commuters and families.
Struggle for Aid
Many drivers reported they had not received the 5,000-peso ($83; £62) payout promised by the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
Guillermo Japole, 62, waited over five hours for cash aid that never arrived. “I have no cash aid, no earnings, no food for my family,” he said. His five children risk eviction from their rental home.
Similarly, 28-year-old driver Anjo Lilac attended the protest with his daughter Hannah. He explained, “No one will look after her since my wife only has a temporary job. Aid will help us with food, rent, and milk for my baby.”
