Manila Strike: Fuel Prices Soar, Workers Demand Relief

0:00On March 26, hundreds of transport workers in Manila have launched a two-day strike over fuel prices that have more than doubled since the Iran War, began on February 28. The Philippines is now facing a national energy emergency. The first in Asia tied to this conflict, as diesel and petrol cost soar. Earlier this week, a ship carrying over 700,000 barrels of Russian crude oil docked in the country, a move by President Ferdinand. Arcos, to diversify supplies away from the Shred of Hormuz, striking groups are demanding an end to fuel taxes, price rollbacks, state controls on oil, plus higher fares and wages for drivers. Drivers like those operating jeet knees, motorcycles, and ride-hailing services are feeling the pinch hard, with many saying they have not gotten. Promise government cash aid and are struggling to feed families or pay rent. Taxes in this gridlock city are also hit, lining up for free rides while facing longer weights to get around. The government has rode out subsidies for drivers, a four-day work week for civil servants

1:03to say fuel, and a new law letting Marcos to spend excise. Taxes on petroleum, if oil hits $80 a barrel for a month, a committee now oversees fuel and essentials distribution amid the crisis. Meanwhile, labor groups criticize the emergency powers as an admission of failure, while business leaders support them to steady the economy. As the strike wraps up, talks continue on easing the fuel burden for everyone involved. That wraps global news today. Brought to you with AI.