By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod has approved a resolution urging barangays across the city to scale down, defer or suspend fiesta celebrations and redirect resources to essential services as the global oil crisis continues to drive up living costs.

The council resolution highlights the growing economic strain caused by rising fuel prices linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted global oil supply.

The impact is being felt most by public utility drivers, minimum wage earners, and low-income households.

Councilor Caesar Distrito said that while fiestas remain a vital part of local culture and tradition, current conditions require a shift in priorities toward basic needs and economic support.

He clarified that the resolution does not seek to cancel fiestas entirely but encourages communities to scale down celebrations and prioritize social support programs.

Under the resolution, barangays are encouraged to realign funds originally intended for fiesta activities toward programs such as fuel subsidies for public utility drivers and essential transport sectors, financial assistance for indigent families and vulnerable groups, food aid, livelihood initiatives, and the strengthening of emergency response systems.

The measure also promotes the adoption of simpler and low-cost community observances that preserve cultural traditions without placing additional financial burden on local resources.

Distrito emphasized that local government units have the authority to promote the general welfare, particularly during times of economic hardship.

He added that larger festivities may resume once the global situation stabilizes, noting that resources saved today can help cushion the immediate impact of the crisis on affected sectors.

The expected rise in petroleum prices, driven by the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, will trigger a chain reaction, raising the cost of goods and services and tightening already strained household budgets.

The conflict in the Middle East traces back to June 2025, when Israel attacked Iran to disarm the country of its missile capabilities.

Iran has been allegedly enriching uranium, a key component in building a nuclear weapon, while Tehran poses threats to American and Israeli interests in the Middle East.

Iran has targeted at least six US military sites across the region since February 28./CJ, WDJ