Modesto Toque Floranda
Modesto 'Mody' Toque Floranda, born on November 4, 1965, is a Filipino transport activist and leader. He serves as the National President of Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON), a militant organization advocating for the rights of jeepney drivers and operators. Floranda rose from the ranks of public utility vehicle drivers to become a prominent voice for the transport sector, particularly during contentious issues like the jeepney modernization program. His advocacy focuses on ensuring that transport policies consider the welfare and capabilities of small operators and drivers rather than favoring large corporations.
Education
- Grassroots organizing and leadership training through transport organizations
- Practical experience as a public utility vehicle driver
Career Highlights
- National President, Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON)
- Transport federation leader and activist
- Organized transport strikes and protests against policies affecting drivers and operators
- Advocate for pro-people public transport system
- Voice for small transport operators in policy negotiations
Key Platforms
Transport Sector Reform
Implementation of a genuinely pro-people transportation modernization program that supports rather than displaces small operators and drivers.
Transport Workers' Rights
Protection of the rights and welfare of transport workers, including fair wages, benefits, and improved working conditions.
Affordable Public Transportation
Development of affordable and accessible public transportation systems that serve the needs of ordinary Filipinos.
National Industrialization
Promotion of national industrialization including the development of local manufacturing capacity for public utility vehicles.
People-Centered Development
Ensuring that development plans and infrastructure projects benefit the majority rather than privileging corporate interests.
Positions on Key Issues
| Issue | Position |
|---|---|
| Economy | Advocates for an economy that prioritizes the welfare of ordinary Filipinos rather than corporate profits. |
| Education | Supports accessible education that addresses the needs of working-class families. |
| Healthcare | Champions affordable healthcare for all, particularly for workers in informal sectors like transport. |
| Environment | Promotes environmentally sustainable transport solutions that are financially viable for small operators. |
| Labor | Strong advocate for workers' rights, particularly in the transportation sector. |
| Agriculture | Supports policies that benefit small-scale farmers and improve rural transportation. |
| Governance | Criticizes policies that favor large corporations at the expense of ordinary Filipinos. |
| Foreign Policy | Opposes foreign-dominated transportation systems and advocates for local control. |
| Charter Change | Cautious about constitutional amendments that may favor corporate interests. |
| Lgbtq Rights | Aligned with progressive positions on equality as part of the Makabayan coalition. |
| Drug War | Critical of human rights violations affecting working-class communities. |
| Icc | Aligned with progressive positions on accountability for human rights violations. |
Sources & Citations
- PISTON official statements and publications
- Media interviews during transport strikes and protests
- Commission on Elections (COMELEC) candidate information
- Makabayan coalition platform statements
- Transport sector policy position papers
This profile is regularly updated with verified information from reliable sources. Last updated: April 24, 2025
