Fuel prices have surged to historic highs as the global oil shock tied to the Middle East conflict hits the Philippines, driving up transport costs and pushing prices of food and basic goods higher for households across the country.
House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has taken the lead in the government’s response, directing a 13-committee coalition in the House of Representatives to confront the crisis and move toward immediate relief. The coordinated effort brought lawmakers and key economic officials together to examine fuel supply, track price movements, and assess how rising costs are affecting daily life and key industries.
“We are here not just to ask questions. We are here to deliver answers, fast, concrete and felt by the people,” Dy said during the joint committee hearing.
The expanded panel includes committees handling energy, agriculture, labor, transport, trade, and appropriations, among others. The move followed an earlier emergency meeting involving five committees, reinforcing Dy’s push for a unified legislative response as fuel prices continue to climb.
Dy placed urgency on measures that can ease the burden on workers, commuters, farmers, and small businesses now facing higher transport and operating costs. Lawmakers are studying targeted assistance, fiscal support, and policy interventions aimed at reducing the immediate impact while strengthening the country’s ability to respond to future oil shocks.
Fuel prices have climbed sharply, with diesel exceeding P170 per liter and gasoline nearing P120 per liter. These increases are already feeding into higher fares and rising prices of goods, directly affecting household spending.
President Bongbong Marcos declared a national energy emergency to secure fuel supply and limit further economic strain. Dy said the House will continue close coordination with the Executive as it advances measures to protect consumers and stabilize the economy.
“The objective is clear, protect the Filipino people, stabilize the economy, and build resilience against future shocks,” Dy said.
