Philtranco's Temporary Suspension Affects Operations

radar Business obtained an internal memo specifying a 6-month period for Philtranco’s temporary suspension, which has not been coursed to drivers and terminal staff.

Drivers and staff at Philtranco terminals have been in the dark about a major update specifying a six-month period for the company’s previously announced temporary suspension.

radar Business obtained an internal memo circulated to select employees on February 11, a week before the company publicly clarified on February 19 that it was only suspending operations effective March 30 and not shutting down.

The memo specifies a six-month temporary halt in operations, which was absent from the public announcement and the February 2 company memo that circulated on social media.

memo (black box) — An internal memo dated February 11 specified a six-month window for Philtranco’s previously announced temporary suspension, but this has not reached the drivers and terminal staff who make up the majority of the company’s workforce.

President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Sabban writes in the memo that current management has been trying to revive the company amid economic challenges but cannot restore it to its former state.

Sabban also blames previous management for financial strain stemming from embezzlement, the sale of company assets, and misappropriation of proceeds from those sales.

The memo does not outline any next steps for employees during the suspension, nor does it confirm whether regular operations will resume when the six-month period ends in September 2026.

Sources tell radar Business that the memo may have only reached office staff, excluding terminal-based employees such as drivers, conductors, mechanics, and ticketing officers—who make up the majority of the workforce.

At least 100 Philtranco employees remain uncertain about their status after March 30, unsure whether to continue waiting amid limited communication from management or pursue other career opportunities.

Drivers and staff at Philtranco terminals have been kept in the dark on a major internal update specifying a six-month window for the company’s previously announced temporary suspension.