IN PHOTOS: Paralyzed

MANILA, Philippines – Metro Manila roads were jeepney-less on Monday, October 16, as operators and drivers went on a transport holiday to protest the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program.

Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (Piston) president George San Mateo told Rappler that most areas in Luzon were paralyed as early as 9 am. Piston opposes the planned phaseout of jeepneys aged 15 years or older. 

The riding public was spared from the inconvenience of the 2-day strike and protest as Malacanang suspended classes and work in government offices. Local government units and other government agencies dispatched vehicles to ferry stranded commuters.

Monumento, Caloocan City

UNUSUAL MONDAY. No traffic, no jeep along the usually busy Samson Road. Photo by Angie de Silva/Rappler

PROTEST CENTER. Jeepney drivers hold their rally along the Monumento Circle. Photo by Angie de Silva/Rappler

LIBRENG SAKAY. The Caloocan LGU provides vehicles to affected commuters. Photo by Angie de Silva/Rappler

España, Manila

DIE IN. Supporters of protesting jeepney drivers block a portion of España to call on other drivers to join the strike. Photo by Maria Tan/Rappler

NO CLASSES BUT... Student activists join the strike protest. Photo by Maria Tan/Rappler

'UNFARE'. Protesters claim that the planned PUV modernization will raise transport fares. Photo by Maria Tan/Rappler

Cubao, Quezon City

PEACEFUL. Police safeguard the strike protest along Aurora Blvd in Cubao. Photo by LeAnne Jazul/Rappler

FAMILY. Protesters of all ages during the transport strike. Photo by LeAnne Jazul/Rappler

SUPPORT. Women's group Gabriela, and other militant organizations join PISTON's 2-day transport strike. Photo by LeAnne Jazul/Rappler

– Rappler.com

Stranded? Report transportation problems using #CommuterWatch.