Senator Bong Go filed a bill aimed at easing the impact of rising fuel costs on Filipino households, placing a ready response on the table as prices continue to climb. Senate Bill No. 2033, or the Fuel Crisis Immediate Relief and Response Bill, was raised during a Senate hearing as a framework that can be activated to deliver immediate support if the situation worsens.
Go framed the bill as a proactive step grounded in past government action. “Kami naman po rito sa Senado, handa po kaming magpasa ng batas kung kakailanganin, tulad po ng Bayanihan 1 and 2 noong 2020,” Go said. He added that the bill had already been filed to ensure Congress is prepared. “In fact, nag-file rin po ako last week ng Senate Bill 2033, Fuel Crisis Immediate Relief and Recovery Bill,” he said.
The bill outlines targeted interventions aimed at easing financial pressure on workers and families, including the temporary suspension of mandatory contributions to SSS and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and the deferment of payments for essential services such as electricity and water. Go said these steps are designed to provide immediate relief as fuel-driven costs continue to affect daily expenses. “Mas makakatulong po ’yun sa mga kababayan natin na hindi na po muna ma-increase yung kanilang contribution,” he said.
He emphasized that while the current fuel situation differs from the pandemic, the approach remains focused on reducing immediate burdens while longer-term solutions are developed. Go also reiterated that the Senate is ready to act swiftly if broader authority is needed. “Kami naman po rito, willing po kaming magtrabaho kung kailangan po kaming ipatawag for a special session. Magpasa ng another Bayanihan law, ay willing po kaming magtrabaho,” he said.
The filing of the bill places a concrete and immediate relief option before Congress, centered on easing recurring household expenses at a time when every peso counts.
