President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s request to Congress to grant him emergency powers to reduce the excise tax on petroleum products has received the province’s support.
As fuel prices continue to soar due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has expressed his support for the president’s intent to exercise emergency powers to cut the excise tax if oil prices reach or exceed US$80 per barrel.
“The Philippines, like many countries, remains vulnerable to external shocks in the global energy market,” said Lacson.
He stressed that the proposed measure would mitigate the impact on Filipinos, particularly in the transport and agriculture sectors.
The governor added that providing the Executive with the flexibility to adjust fuel excise taxes would enable the national government to respond swiftly to crises and protect the welfare of Filipinos in times of international turmoil.
“At a time when geopolitical tensions threaten economic stability across the world, preparedness and responsiveness are essential,” the official noted, as he commended the president’s proactive steps to minimize the effects on the national economy.
He also assured the national government of local government support in easing the public’s financial burden due to rising fuel costs, saying decisive leadership and unity are vital in safeguarding communities against the frailties of the global market.
As the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) enjoined local governments to augment the national government’s fuel subsidy to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, Negros Occidental provincial government affirmed its solidarity with the cause.
In Bacolod City, Mayor Greg Gasataya said the city government and the Philippine National Police will deploy joint fuel monitoring and inspection teams across the Metro to ensure compliance of gas stations with only authorized fuel price adjustments, and it will tighten coordination with the Department of Energy in investigating complaints and irregularities.
Gasataya pointed out that “we will not tolerate overpricing and anyone trying to take advantage of the rising fuel prices,” aligned with the president’s warning against profiteering.
In his recent working visit to New York, President Marcos said he would certify as urgent a proposed emergency powers bill to address oil price spikes amid geopolitical tensions and supply challenges that could push prices higher and trigger a domino effect on transportation costs and prices of basic goods and commodities. (PIA Negros Occidental)