By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod has approved a resolution calling for immediate government intervention to assist micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) grappling with the impact of rising fuel prices driven by the global oil crisis.

The measure urges the office of Mayor Greg Gasataya to mobilize key city departments to deliver targeted support to affected businesses.

Among those tapped are the Department of Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion, the City Livelihood and Cooperative Development Office, and the Department of Social Services and Development.

The resolution underscores the vital role of MSMEs in sustaining the city’s economy, noting that these enterprises generate employment and support thousands of households.

However, continued increases in fuel prices have significantly driven up transportation, production and operational costs, putting many businesses at risk of downsizing or closure.

To mitigate these challenges, the city government is being urged to extend financial assistance or facilitate access to low-interest loan programs tailored for MSMEs.

Councilor Caesar Distrito emphasized the urgency of supporting local enterprises, describing MSMEs as the “lifeblood” of the local economy that must be protected during periods of economic strain.

In addition to financing, the resolution encourages complementary interventions, including fuel subsidies for qualified sectors, business continuity assistance, financial literacy programs, and improved access to credit facilities./CJ, WDJ