MANILA, Philippines -- Sen. Bam Aquino on Wednesday sought a "broader" state of national emergency, and not just a state of national energy emergency to control the prices of goods amid the oil crisis brought by the Middle East war.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday declared a state of national energy emergency through Executive Order 110.
The senator said that a state of national emergency would give the government "more teeth in controlling prices and addressing the crisis," rather than relying on the state of national energy emergency.
Aside from the issue of price control, Aquino said it was also unclear under EO 110 if local government units can utilize their quick response fund to extend assistance to their constituents.
Sen. Loren Legarda said the President's declaration of a state of national energy emergency was an "overdue recognition" that the country is already in a crisis.
"By itself, a declaration of a state of national energy emergency will not protect Filipino families from rising fuel prices, higher food costs, heavier transport expenses, and the mounting burdens on our farmers and fisherfolk," Legarda said.
"But with such recognition, our actions can finally proceed in their proper light," the senator said in a statement on Wednesday.
Whether it involves the issue on oil supply or prices, the current economic situation directly affects the people -- which "cannot be addressed by business-as-usual approach" of the government, she added.
"This declaration will only have real meaning if it becomes the basis for swift, coordinated, and compassionate action that delivers immediate relief to Filipino families and guides the nation through this crisis with clarity, resolve, and purpose," Legarda said.
Aquino said he would seek clarification on the matter during the resumption of the Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy Committee hearing on Thursday to determine whether the provision is included in the EO 110.
Meanwhile, Aquino said the government should utilize its more than P200 billion in available funds to provide targeted aid to affected sectors and industries.
Among these sectors are transport workers, micro, small, and medium enterprises, farmers, fisherfolk, teachers, and healthcare workers, among others.
He also stressed the importance of protecting the country’s public markets, hospitals, and schools, saying they are vital to Filipino families from the worst effects of the crisis.
