MANIBELA and PISTON nationwide transport strike from September 28 to September 30, 2026 has disrupted public transportation systems nationwide in Metro Manila and other parts of the Philippines. The demonstration is in the context of increased fuel prices; the transport groups are on a call for oil price relief and further measures to reduce an escalating operating cost.
Commuters, students and workers are encouraged to make plans for alternatives to the work-day, watch local announcements and give themselves additional travel time in the event of the three-day strike.
Why Are MANIBELA and PISTON Holding a Strike?
Soaring petrol prices are the reason for the protest by the transport groups for getting the excise taxes and value-added tax on petroleum products scrapped. Operators and drivers are concerned about increased fuel costs impacting on their daily wages.
In addition, the strike is happening as the government has introduced fare hikes for public utility vehicles. But transport groups insist that increased fare charges won’t solve the funding woes of the drivers/operators.
Major Routes Affected by the Transport Strike
Jeepney and UV Express service in peripheral major extensions in Metro Manila services may experience reduced service, depending on the operator participation.
The important commuting corridors to be monitored are Commonwealth Avenue, Fairview, Philcoa, Litex, Cubao and Quezon Avenue and E. Rodriguez in Quezon City and Northern Metro Manila.
Routes to/from Manila – Quezon City, Bulacan, Maricoto, Metro Bulacan, Santo Domingo and Mendez would be affected in Central Metro Manila via España Boulevard in Manila / Quiapo, Mendiola, Nagtahan and Taft Avenue.
The commuters who go between Marikina, Antipolo and LRT-2 stations of Santolan and Katipunan in Eastern Metro Manila and Rizal should plan for alternative trips.
In Southern Metro Manila: Jeeps in Alabang-Zapote Road, Baclaran and Pasay are also nearing further cut service in these areas.
Libreng Sakay: Free Ride Routes and Locations
Other agencies and in partnership with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), have activated free-ride services to help the people affected. Services are held from 6:00am to 8:00pm but this may be variable depending on location.
Routes announced by Key include:
- Quiapo–Fairview
- Quiapo–Welcome Rotonda
- Nagtahan–Cubao
- Cubao–Fairview
- Robinsons Galleria–Taytay
Quezon City and Manila have also programmed for local government assistance with transportation. Commuters should look for official Libreng Sakay signage at a designated pick-up location in Reading.
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Commuter Guide: Alternative Transportation Options
Alternatives to the affected routes of jeepneys are being provided by the LRT-1, LRT-2 and MRT-3 railways as well as the EDSA Bus Carousel. Demonstrate due care on your trip before arriving at the airport.
Students and parents must check the change of classes online. If the transport situation disrupts workers’ journeys to and from work, they should liaise with their employer.
Avoid missing out on flights by departing early, looking out for train stations in the vicinity, and having some cash on hand for other means of transport.
FAQs
What’s the date of the MANIBELA and PISTON transport strike?
The strike advertised by MANIBELA is from September 28 to September 30, 2026 and that of PISTON is from September 29 – 30, 2026.
What transportation services could be impacted?
This may include less jeepney service on these corridors in Commonwealth Avenue, Cubao, Fairview, España Boulevard, Quiapo, Marikina, Antipolo and Southern Metro Manila corridors.
What places do commuters go where they can get free rides?
Announced free-ride flights to the routes were Quiapo to Fairview, Quiapo to Welcome Rotonda, Nagtahan to Cubao, Cubao to Fairview and Robinsons Galleria to Taytay.
