NUPL backs March 19 transport strike

A LAWYERS’ GROUP on Wednesday expressed support for a nationwide transport strike set this week in response to the spiraling costs of fuel and basic commodities.

In a statement, the National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers-National Capital Region (NUPL-NCR) endorsed the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) in launching the protest on March 19, as petroleum, electricity, and essential goods continue to surge in cost.

“The conduct of a transport strike is a unique way for workers and the citizens to express their sentiments and views to the government and the wider public,” the NUPL said in Filipino.

“Fuel subsidies for PUV (public utility vehicle) drivers and operators, along with free rides for commuters, are merely short-term solutions,” it added, noting that while oil price increases are staggered, the costs of basic necessities continue to climb without any corresponding increase in wages or income.

“It also seems that the impact of the four-day workweek on public service was not thoroughly considered. The government’s pessimistic message is: when the blanket is short, learn to curl up,” the NUPL said. 

The lawyers highlighted the country’s vulnerability as an export-driven, import-dependent economy sourcing 98% of crude oil from abroad, particularly West Asia, warning that rising oil prices create a domino effect on food, electricity, and water costs.

“The prudent proposal to remove the excise tax and value-added tax on oil products is timely,” the group added, urging the government to roll back fuel prices to P55 per liter and abolish oil deregulation in the industry among other demands. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking