Sen. Bam Aquino called for a broader state of national emergency, saying the current focus on energy alone may not be enough to control rising prices driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The appeal came a day after Bongbong Marcos signed Executive Order 110, placing the country under a state of national energy emergency to address fuel supply and cost pressures.
Aquino said expanding the declaration would give the government stronger authority to manage prices and respond to the wider economic impact of the crisis. He noted that rising oil prices are already affecting food costs, transport fares, and other daily expenses, placing additional strain on households.
He also raised concerns over the scope of the order, saying it remains unclear whether local government units can tap their quick response funds to provide immediate assistance to affected communities. Aquino said he would seek clarification on this during a Senate hearing.
Separately, Sen. Loren Legarda described the energy emergency declaration as a delayed acknowledgment of the crisis. She said the move must be followed by concrete and coordinated action to ease the burden on Filipino families.
Aquino also urged the government to mobilize more than ₱200 billion in available funds to support sectors most affected by the crisis, including transport workers, small businesses, farmers, fisherfolk, teachers, and healthcare workers.
He added that public markets, hospitals, and schools should be prioritized, as these remain critical in helping communities cope with the impact of rising prices.
