Manila, April 13 -- Malacanang on Monday described the planned nationwide transport strike as "untimely," urging dialogue instead as the government rolls out measures to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices.

Transport group Manibela is set to stage a three-day strike from April 15 to 17, citing the government's alleged slow response to the plight of drivers affected by high oil prices.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the planned protest comes at a critical time when the government is addressing the effects of the Middle East crisis on fuel costs.

"Sa atin po ngayon... ang pagho-hold ng transport strike ay hindi napapanahon sa ngayon. Hindi po ito makakatulong (At this time... holding a transport strike is not timely. It wil...