Malacañang on Friday pushed back against alleged “detractors” criticizing the government, stressing that efforts are underway to assist Filipinos affected by rising fuel prices.
The response came as the government continues to roll out financial assistance and fuel subsidies to cushion the impact of increasing petroleum costs on the public, particularly transport workers.
During a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro challenged critics to conduct their own investigation if they have doubts about the government’s actions.
“‘Yan naman po ay puro haka-haka, puro pang-iintriga. Kung mayroon silang nais na malaman, at mayroon silang duda, e ‘di sila na po mismo ang mag-imbestiga,” Castro said.
Castro emphasized that now is not the time for intrigue, adding that such matters are not the focus of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr..
“Sa ngayon po, hindi po iniisip ng Pangulo ‘yong mga ganiyang klase ng intriga. Hindi panahon ngayon ng pang-iintriga,” she said.
“Kailangan po natin ng pagtutulungan, hindi po natin kailangan ng paninira, kung hindi pag-uunawaan,” she added.
The Palace reiterated that the administration is prioritizing unity and concrete solutions, including the distribution of fuel subsidies for drivers and operators heavily affected by the surge in oil prices.
The rise in fuel costs has been linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which continue to impact global oil supply, transportation systems, and the prices of basic goods in the country.