By Lane Afable, News Editor
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that a two-day nationwide transportation strike is scheduled for Thursday, March 26 through Friday, March 27, 2026.
The alert cited that transport groups including jeepney, bus, UV Express, and transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers – have said they plan to strike to demand government action on rising fuel prices.
Nevertheless, the U.S. Embassy remains open and will continue to provide all public services, including American Citizen Services and visa appointments, during the strike.
U.S. citizens with appointments at the Embassy should plan for additional travel time and consider alternative transportation options.
It said, U.S. citizens could expect:
▪︎ Significant disruptions to public transportation nationwide;
▪︎ Protest activity associated with the strike;
▪︎ Heavy police presence near demonstration areas;
▪︎ Additional traffic congestion, including in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy.
The advisory to strictly observe the following:
▪︎ Avoid areas affected by protests and large gatherings;
▪︎ Monitor local media for updates on traffic conditions and protest locations;
▪︎ Allow extra time for travel and plan alternative transportation arrangements;
▪︎ Keep a low profile and remain aware of your surroundings;
▪︎ Review your personal security plans;
▪︎ Ensure travel documents are up to date and easily accessible;
▪︎ Enroll in the step.state.gov to receive security updates;
▪︎ Follow local government authorities on social media for real-time information.
For further information and assistance:
It also exhorted US citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate in an emergency, or,
Contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines, located at 1201 Roxas Boulevard, at +(63) (2) 5301-2000, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +(63) (2) 5301-2000.
Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Advisories, Alerts, and the Philippines Country Specific Information.
Follow the US Embassy on X and Facebook.
