78-Year-Old Driver in Critical Condition After Suffering Heart Attack During Protest in Caloocan City
A 78-year-old driver was hospitalized and currently in critical condition after suffering a heart attack while joining a protest in Caloocan City.
On Tuesday morning, September 29, 2026, the driver known to many of his fellow transport workers as “Tatay Elmer” suffered a heart attack during protest.
Elmer Cordero was taking part in a demonstration organized by PISTON when he suddenly experienced chest pain at the group’s strike center in the Monumento area. According to fellow members, he was sitting with other protesters when he began feeling discomfort.
After a few moments, he lost consciousness, causing concern among those around him. He was immediately brought to Caloocan City Medical Center South, where he remains confined. As of Tuesday evening, Tatay Elmer had not yet regained consciousness.
Members of PISTON said they were closely monitoring his condition and staying in contact with his family while he received medical care.
For many transport workers, Tatay Elmer is a familiar face. He has spent nearly five decades working as a driver and has long been active in campaigns involving the welfare of public transport drivers.
Despite his old age and declining physical strength, he continued to participate in activities that he believed would help improve the livelihood of drivers.
His fellow members described him as hardworking, dedicated, and always among the first to attend meetings and activities. They said he remained committed to advocating for better earnings for drivers, especially at a time when rising fuel prices continue to affect the transport sector.
Tatay Elmer was also among the six PISTON members arrested in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic while calling for the return of public transportation operations.
Following the incident, PISTON assured the public that it would continue supporting Tatay Elmer and his family. The group has also appealed to those who wish to extend assistance to coordinate with them.
Meanwhile, the second and final day of the nationwide transport strike organized by PISTON and other sectors is set to continue on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
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