Thousands of public transport drivers in the Philippines have embarked on a two-day strike to protest soaring fuel prices, as the rising cost of petroleum continues to affect commuters, transport operators and low-income households.
The strike, organised by the transport workers’ union Piston, began on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. Organisers said about 70,000 drivers and operators were expected to participate.
The protesters are demanding that fuel prices be reduced to 55 pesos ($0.88) per litre, which they say was the price level before the United States and Israel launched their war against Iran in February.
Philippine authorities deployed 8,643 police officers and provided buses and free rides to assist commuters affected by the strike.
Police spokesman Allen Rae Co said officials had monitored 11 rallies involving about 275 people in Manila and that the strike had not caused significant disruption in the capital.
Piston blamed the rising fuel prices on the US-Israel war against Iran and accused the government of failing to adequately protect drivers from the impact of the global oil crisis.
Another transport group, Manibela, also staged a strike on Monday, demanding government relief from rising fuel costs as well as the removal of value-added and excise taxes on fuel. The group suspended its action on Tuesday to engage in talks with the Land Transportation Office.
The Philippines increased fuel prices most recently on August 25, with authorities attributing the increases partly to geopolitical tensions and conflict in the Middle East, which have disrupted shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, and reduced global oil supplies.
The country declared a national energy emergency in March as fuel prices surged, becoming the first country in the world to take such a step during the crisis.
The Philippines relies heavily on imported oil, making the country vulnerable to international price increases. Higher fuel costs have contributed to rising consumer prices and increased transportation and logistics expenses.
According to Al Jazeera reporting from Manila, some drivers said their daily earnings had fallen from about $10 at the beginning of the year to less than $5.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board said rising fuel prices were affecting both transport operators and workers who depend on public transport for their livelihoods, while describing recent fare increases as a reasonable adjustment.
The protests come as millions of Filipinos continue to face higher prices for fuel and other essential goods amid the ongoing global energy crisis.
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