Several schools and universities will suspend face-to-face classes on Thursday, March 19, 2026, due to a nationwide transport strike organized by PISTON (Pinag-isang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide). The strike will affect the National Capital Region and provinces nationwide. PISTON national president Mody Floranda confirmed the group's plans during a press conference.

Transport Strike Prompts Class Suspensions Across the Country

National Impact of the PISTON-Led Strike

Local and national authorities have issued advisories urging students and faculty to stay home during the strike. The transport strike is expected to cause significant disruptions in public transportation, making it unsafe and impractical for students to commute. The public is advised to monitor official announcements for updates on class suspensions in their areas.

Government Response and Advisories

Multiple universities have released advisories regarding class adjustments for March 19, 2026. The following institutions will shift to online learning:

  • University of the East (UE) – Manila and Caloocan campuses will shift all classes to online modality
  • Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) – Sta. Mesa campus will implement remote learning
  • Adamson University – All levels will conduct synchronous online classes
  • National Teachers College – All academic levels will transition to synchronous online classes

Universities Shift to Alternative Learning Modalities

Major Higher Education Institutions Affected

Several private schools and colleges have also released their respective advisories, with most opting to suspend face-to-face classes entirely for the day. Some institutions have indicated they will issue further guidance depending on the severity of the strike's impact. Educational leaders emphasize that student safety remains the top priority.

Private Schools and Additional Institutions

Students and parents are advised to stay updated through official school channels for specific instructions regarding their classes on March 19. Schools that have not yet released announcements may still update their status before Thursday morning. Faculty members have been instructed to prepare learning materials for online delivery.

Preparing for Thursday's Class Suspension

What Students and Parents Should Know

The list of schools and universities suspending face-to-face classes is expected to grow as more institutions release their official statements. Local government units in various regions may also announce class suspensions for all levels, from kindergarten to senior high school. The public is encouraged to regularly check official advisories from the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education for comprehensive updates.

Monitoring for Updates

Essential workers and those who must travel on Thursday are advised to plan alternative transportation arrangements in advance. Public utility vehicles and jeepneys may be limited during the strike. Stay tuned to official channels for the latest information on class suspensions and transportation updates.