By Wilnard Bacelonia | Philippine News Agency
Senators called on Monday for a coordinated government response and expanded support measures to cushion the impact of rising oil prices amid tensions in the Middle East.
Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito proposed creating an inter-agency body to coordinate austerity measures and manage potential fuel supply disruptions, citing the need for early action, “’Wag na natin hintayin na lumala pa ang krisis, dapat naghahanda na tayo.”
He warned of a “domino effect” on food, transport, and other goods if oil supply is disrupted, noting the global dependence on Middle Eastern oil.
Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros urged a multi-pronged response beyond fuel excise tax suspension, including expanded subsidies for the transport sector, “Kailangan makinig at umaksyon ang pamahalaan sa daing ng ating mga tsuper at commuter.”
Hontiveros cited her proposed P52.8 billion subsidy package, including P12 billion for transport aid, and called for faster distribution of assistance to drivers and operators.
Oil prices, with diesel breaching the triple-digit mark last week, have reached record high for the past week amid the war in the Middle East, affecting transport workers.
Last week, tricycle drivers in Metro Manila were given a P5,000 fuel subsidy to help them cope with the rising prices.
The fuel subsidy program for the transport sector will be expanded nationwide starting April 6, Malacañang said Monday. (PNA)
