Manila, April 6, 2026 — Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson has called for decisive government action to protect consumers from the effects of rising oil prices, emphasizing that extraordinary measures may be necessary to stabilize the market and ease financial pressure on households and businesses.
Speaking on Sunday, Lacson described the current situation as a significant challenge for Filipinos, noting that persistent increases in fuel costs are affecting daily living expenses, transportation services, and the overall cost of goods and services. “We need to be prepared to take strong measures if the situation continues to worsen. Protecting the public from undue burden must be a priority,” Lacson said.
He urged authorities to ensure transparency in any market interventions, particularly in addressing early profiteering in the fuel sector. Lacson stressed that government agencies should clearly communicate the steps they are taking to prevent exploitation, emphasizing that public trust depends on visible action.
Lacson also highlighted the potential role of fiscal policy in mitigating the impact of rising oil prices. He pointed out that any relief from a temporary excise tax suspension on fuel may take time to appear at the pump and cautioned that any reductions might not be noticeable until June, if at all. “While policy adjustments are being considered, we must recognize that their effects may be delayed. Consumers should be aware of this reality,” he said.
In addition to tax-related measures, Lacson emphasized the importance of efficiently using available government funds to support sectors most affected by fuel price increases. He cited approximately P230 billion in potential resources from the 2025 and 2026 national budgets, including nearly P200 billion in unobligated and unreleased appropriations under the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and P31 billion under the 2025 GAA. According to Lacson, mobilizing these funds strategically could provide relief to households, transport providers, and businesses facing rising operational costs due to fuel price fluctuations.
Economic analysts note that fuel price volatility has far-reaching effects, influencing not only transportation costs but also the prices of food, consumer goods, and essential services. Stabilizing fuel prices is seen as a critical step in maintaining economic stability, particularly for small- and medium-sized enterprises that are highly sensitive to changes in operational expenses.
Lacson’s remarks underscore ongoing discussions within government circles regarding the balance between immediate relief for consumers and long-term fiscal responsibility. Options being considered include temporary tax adjustments, subsidies, and strategic allocation of budgetary funds to the most affected sectors.
Industry observers also highlight the importance of monitoring market behavior to prevent potential profiteering, which can exacerbate the financial strain on consumers. “Transparency and oversight are key. Measures need to reach the public in a meaningful way,” Lacson added.
With energy prices remaining a central concern for policymakers, stakeholders across various sectors are calling for coordinated strategies that combine fiscal policy, regulatory oversight, and targeted support. Lawmakers, industry leaders, and consumer groups alike have emphasized that prompt and transparent action will be essential to mitigate the social and economic impact of sustained fuel price increases.
As debates continue on the most effective interventions, Lacson’s call for “strong and even extreme” measures reflects the urgency felt by officials to address the situation comprehensively, ensuring that both short-term relief and long-term stability are achieved.
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