SEN. Bong Go expressed support for the government’s move to allow the suspension of fuel excise taxes amid rising prices.
The senator urged authorities to expand relief measures beyond public utility vehicle drivers to include other affected sectors.
On March 25, the executive branch enacted Republic Act 12316, which authorizes the suspension or reduction of excise taxes on petroleum products when global oil prices breach certain thresholds. The law grants the president flexibility to respond more quickly to volatile oil markets upon recommendation of economic managers.
An executive order declaring a state of national energy emergency has also been issued, enabling a whole-of-government approach to stabilize fuel supply and mitigate rising costs.
Go welcomed the tax suspension measure, describing it as a necessary step to ease immediate pressure on consumers. However, he emphasized that government intervention must go further.
“We support measures that can ease the costs of drivers, but they should not stop there. Many other sectors are affected and need help as well,” he said.
He warned that rising oil prices trigger a “domino effect” across the economy, driving up transportation fares, food prices, and other basic goods. “When oil prices rise, it affects fares, food, and daily needs. The scope of assistance should be broadened,” he added.
The senator’s remarks came after a netizen posted on his official Facebook page, saying that while transport operators receive targeted assistance, other groups equally burdened by high fuel costs remain excluded.
In another post, a balut (duck egg) vendor noted that higher fuel costs reduced their daily earnings.
The senator said that overlooked sectors, such as street vendors and fisherfolk, should be included in relief efforts.
