March 20, 2026
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Public transportation across Northern Mindanao is expected to grind to a halt on Monday, March 23, after transport groups and cooperatives announced a one-day “transport holiday” in protest of the continued surge in fuel prices.
In a public advisory issued on March 18, the Northern Mindanao Federation of Transport Service Cooperatives (NOMFEDTRASCO) confirmed that its member groups will suspend operations as a form of collective action, citing the worsening economic strain on drivers, operators, and transport cooperatives.
The federation said the persistent increase in fuel costs has made it increasingly difficult for transport workers to sustain daily operations, raising concerns over their ability to continue providing reliable and affordable services to the commuting public.
“This decision is made due to the growing difficulty faced by the transport sector in sustaining daily operations,” the group said in its statement. “The rising cost of fuel has greatly affected drivers, operators, and transport cooperatives.”
Service Disruptions Expected
With the planned transport holiday, commuters across the region may face limited to no availability of public transportation, particularly jeepneys, vans-for-hire, and other cooperative-run services. The group urged the public to make necessary travel adjustments ahead of time.
“We encourage all commuters to plan their trips accordingly,” the advisory read, as it appealed for understanding and support from the public.
The transport holiday is expected to significantly impact workers, students, and businesses that rely heavily on daily public transport, especially in urban centers like Cagayan de Oro City and nearby provinces.
Call for Government Intervention
NOMFEDTRASCO emphasized that the action is intended to draw attention to the urgent need for government intervention, particularly in addressing the impact of rising fuel prices on the transport sector.
Transport leaders warned that without immediate and long-term solutions, more operators may be forced to reduce trips or cease operations altogether, further disrupting mobility and economic activity.
“This initiative aims to highlight the current situation of the transport industry and seek long-term solutions for the benefit of both operators and the commuting public,” the group added.
Mounting Pressure on Transport Sector
The transport holiday comes amid consecutive weeks of fuel price hikes nationwide, placing mounting pressure on public utility drivers who are already grappling with low daily earnings and increasing operational costs.
Transport groups have repeatedly called for fuel subsidies, fare adjustments, and policy reforms to cushion the impact of volatile oil prices. However, many claim that existing support mechanisms remain insufficient or slow to reach affected sectors.
As the March 23 transport holiday approaches, both commuters and local authorities are bracing for disruptions, with calls for contingency measures to mitigate its effects.
Despite the inconvenience, transport groups maintain that the action is necessary to ensure the long-term survival of the industry and to push for reforms that will benefit both drivers and the riding public.