Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Alfredo Garbin has called on oil companies to voluntarily extend discounts to vulnerable sectors struggling with the impact of rising fuel prices brought about by tensions in the Middle East.
Garbin made the appeal as Filipinos marked Easter Sunday, saying the occasion should inspire compassion and relief for those most affected.
“Habang ipinagdiriwang natin ang Pasko ng Pagkabuhay, panahon ng pag-asa at panibagong simula, maaari namang magkusang-loob ang oil companies na magbigay ng makatwirang diskwento upang maibsan ang bigat na pasan ng ating mga kababayan,” Garbin said.
He stressed that Easter is also a reminder of shared responsibility.
“Ang Muling Pagkabuhay ng Panginoong Hesus ay paalala na may kabutihan sa mundo. Sa panahong ito, inaasahan natin ang malasakit ng malalaking kumpanya upang kahit papaano ay maibsan ang hirap na dinaranas ng ating mga kababayan,” he added.
Garbin suggested that discounts be directed to farmers, fisherfolk, freight operators, and public utility drivers, noting that they would feel the immediate benefit.
“Sa patuloy na mataas na presyo ng gasolina at diesel, maraming motorista ang napipilitang bawasan ang biyahe o iparada ang kanilang mga sasakyan. Ang epekto nito ay ramdam sa buong supply chain, mula sa transportasyon hanggang sa presyo ng pagkain,” the lawmaker said.
He also urged a gradual increase in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices to protect households and small businesses.
“Maaaring pag-aralan ang mas maayos na pag-phase ng price adjustments sa LPG upang hindi mabigla ang mga households at maliliit na negosyo tulad ng mga karinderya,” Garbin noted.