EXCLUSIVE: Philtranco workers allege forced eviction from terminal 'barracks' amid suspension

Workers claim they were removed from Turbina terminal facilities as company’s six-month shutdown continues and updates remain limited to select staff.

Philtranco staff claim they had been forcefully vacated from terminal barracks amid the company’s six-month suspension of operations.

A source told radar Business that remaining drivers and maintenance staff residing at terminal barracks in Turbina in Calamba, Laguna were allegedly forced to leave in late May, as part of the company’s six-month suspension which began on May 30, 2026. Around 10 workers, some with their families, had been staying at the terminal.

Philtranco is suspending operations for six months due to financial difficulties, blaming previous management for alleged theft and illegal asset sales, but workers said only select employees were informed of the development. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled on June 11, 2026.

Terminal-based staff had already been sharply reduced since the company began its suspension on March 30, as more workers opted to return to their home provinces or seek work elsewhere.

Workers allege that no clear updates were issued by management regarding the suspension and their employment status during and after the work stoppage.

However, Philtranco CEO Michael Sabban told radar Business that the workers were removed from the terminal after the company ended its lease.

“Wala talagang barracks doon. Hinayaan lang namin ang drivers and maintenance workers na mag-stay sa isang 1.1-hectare area doon dahil sa suspension,” he said.

Sabban said Philtranco terminated its lease on April 15, with formal turnover completed by May. The land was supposedly leased from the Tanco family.

Drivers and maintenance staff at other former Philtranco terminals continue to await formal updates from management amid what they allege to be continued silence despite follow-ups.