Comparative Analysis of Selected Transport Sector Unions in Metro Manila

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study is to compare the political dynamics of three selected public transport sector unions, particularly the Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) industry in Metro Manila, for the benefit of the jeepney drivers, themselves. The research study focuses on the characteristics of each union including their profiles, membership status, recruitment process, educational and political activities, and livelihood projects. This study aims to come up with a comparative analysis on how they operate in response to various social conditions in order to protect the interests of their members and also the commuters. The three largest jeepney federations, namely the Federation of Jeepney operators and Drivers Associations of the Philippines (FEJODAP), Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila & Suburbs Drivers Association (PASANG MASDA), and Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) were selected for this study. However, during the course of the study, PASANG MASDA and its members were not cooperative, thus limiting the output to a comparison of two unions- FEJODAP and PISTON. This research was conducted by surveying 50 drivers from each union and 50 commuters. Officers from each union were interviewed about their organization’s profiles, history, and other things about their political dynamics. The researcher also participated and observed some of the unions’ meetings and protest actions. The data in this study highlights the difference between unions. The militant PISTON proved to be better in protecting its members’ rights and the interests of the commuters. FEJODAP remains to be an economist union that provides service to its members with the help of government institutions and the private sector. As for the commuters, they generally perceive PISTON to be the better union. The findings of this study show that PISTON had been the advocate of genuine, militant, and nationalist brand of unionism. Their internal and external programs have been consistent and have proven to be the better one in promoting the interests of both the jeepney sector and the commuting public sector.