Piston, #TransportStrike trend on Twitter

MANILA, Philippines – Piston and #TransportStrike trended on Twitter during the nationwide transport strike on Monday, October 16.

Piston, which stands for Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide, is the transport group behind the protest against the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program. (READ: Jeepney riders feel effects of transport strike)

The PUV modernization program, which was launched back in June by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), mandates the replacement of jeepneys aged 15 years or older.

The program also requires jeepneys to be replaced by those powered by Euro 4 engines or electrically-powered engines with solar panels for roofs to promote safer and more environment-friendly transport options. (READ: EXPLAINER: What’s the reason for the 2-day transport strike?)

According to Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Martin Delgra III, they have tallied 180,000 jeepneys that need to be replaced. (READ: Buses, jeepneys in the Philippines to be modernized by 2020)

This sparked complaints from drivers and operators who said the program is “anti-poor” since each new jeepney would cost P1 million each.

A leftist group also warned that some jeepney drivers could lose their jobs.

Take a look at some of the #TransportStrike tweets below.

#TransportStrike – Curated tweets by MovePH

This is the 3rd nationwide strike against the modernization program, with the first two strikes held in February and September this year. (READ: Hundreds stranded amid jeepney transport strike)

Aside from the phaseout of old PUVs, the modernization program includes changes in the franchising system, new route plans, and training for drivers. – Rappler.com