Manila, March 24 -- It was business as usual for drivers and operators of public utility vehicles (PUV) here on Monday amid the start of a three-day nationwide transport strike set by groups opposed to the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP).

In a joint statement, 16 transport cooperatives and corporations operating in Baguio City and nearby areas voiced their support to the government's PUVMP.

"United we stand in support to modernize the transport system in the Cordilleras," the groups said.

The groups also said that although they have shunned the transport strike and are in favor of the PUVMP, they still support the strike organizers' call for a better transport sector.

"Sa pagsuporta sa programa ng modernisasyon hindi naming tinaliku...