By Perla Lena
ILOILO CITY – Contrary to the expectations of an organized strike, the transport caravan fell short of disrupting transportation in Iloilo and Panay on Monday, as evaluated by the Police Regional Police Office 6.
“They were unable to gather a significant turnout, and the crucial point is that they did not significantly hinder the usual operation of public transportation,” stated Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, the regional director of PRO 6, during an interview.
“Only a small number of individuals participated, with many of them being recognized from previous rallies, particularly those affiliated with the Bayan group.
The Western Visayas top cop said they have prepared vehicles in case there were stranded passengers.
“We have patrol cars and vehicles coming from LGUs (local government units),” he added.
He said patrol cars can be utilized as long as there are no emergencies.
At the regional headquarters, there are two-man trucks and 6×6 trucks.
Raymundo “Boyet” Parcon, president of the Western Visayas Transport Cooperative (WVTC), in a separate interview, said there was an influx of passengers in the morning due to students and workers returning to the city.
“We did not feel there was a strike since other consolidated jeepneys even ply their routes,” he said.
He also assured commuters that all transport cooperatives and even those unconsolidated are plying their routes.
“It has no effect,” he said, adding that they met with the alliance and agreed to continue plying their routes. (PNA)
