Senator Win Gatchalian has called on the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to consider imposing a price ceiling on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as consumers brace for possible price hikes due to tensions in the Middle East.
Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee and the Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) committee, warned that LPG prices could increase by ₱35 to ₱40 per 11-kilogram cylinder starting April—posing additional strain on households and small businesses.
“I call on the DOE and DTI to ensure adequate supply, strictly monitor market pricing, and, if price increases are unwarranted, consider imposing a price ceiling on LPG as a prescribed measure against undue price increases during emergency situations provided under RA 10623, an act amending certain provisions of the Price Act (RA 7581) to protect consumers,” Gatchalian said.
He stressed that LPG remains a basic necessity for Filipino families and micro-enterprises, particularly eateries and small food vendors.
“Ang LPG ay pangunahing pangangailangan sa bawat tahanan at maliliit na negosyo tulad ng mga karinderya. Anumang hindi makatuwirang pagtaas ng presyo nito ay dagdag na pasanin lamang sa kabuhayan at sa presyo ng pagkain para sa ordinaryong Pilipino,” he added.
The senator’s appeal comes amid growing concerns over global oil supply disruptions, which could trigger further increases in domestic fuel and LPG prices.