Palace denies knowledge of Marcos-Manibela transport strike deal

MANILA — The Palace distanced itself from reports of a settlement between First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Manibela leadership on Wednesday, even as the transport coalition moved to cut short its strike action.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said she had not yet been briefed on details of any accord that may have emerged from the First Lady's meeting with Manibela officials. The statement came after the transport group announced it would scale back its planned transport stoppage.

Manibela had called for a strike to protest rising fuel prices and operational costs affecting public transport operators. The group's decision to suspend or reduce the action followed direct talks with the First Lady, though specifics of any understanding remained unclear.

The Palace's apparent disconnect from the negotiations underscored questions about the nature and scope of any agreement reached during the high-level meeting. Officials said further clarification would be provided once the First Lady's office formally reported on the discussions.

Manibela represents thousands of jeepney operators, bus companies, and other transport providers across the country. The group's willingness to shelve strike plans suggested substantive progress in addressing its concerns, though government officials maintained cautious distance from confirming any formal deal.