MANILA, Philippines - Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin Jr. has urged oil companies to voluntarily extend fuel discounts this Easter Sunday to help ease the burden on consumers still reeling from high fuel costs.
This comes as fuel prices are expected to rise to the ₱120–₱150 per liter range next week.
In a statement on Saturday, Garbin said oil firms should not wait for the full implementation of fuel excise tax cuts before taking action.
“While we are celebrating Easter—a time of hope and new beginnings—oil companies should take the initiative to offer meaningful discounts to ease the burden on our countrymen,” Garbin said.
He added that elevated gasoline prices continue to affect not only motorists but also the broader economy, noting that some motorists have already reduced their trips, impacting the entire supply chain—from transportation to food prices.
Garbin said voluntary discounts would provide immediate and meaningful relief, particularly to vulnerable sectors.
The Bicol lawmaker also urged oil companies to work closely with the Department of Energy to ensure the timely and orderly rollout of measures that could help bring down fuel prices, including tax adjustments.
