Malacañang to ask Congress for powers reducing fuel tax

Malacañan Palace said it will formally ask Congress to grant emergency powers to Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to allow the reduction of fuel excise taxes as the government responds to rising fuel prices linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Claire Castro, undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), confirmed that the Palace plans to submit the request when asked by reporters in New York City if the President would seek emergency powers related to fuel taxes.

She added that officials from the Department of Energy (DOE) have been coordinating with the Palace on the matter. Castro also disclosed that the DOE has issued show-cause orders to 54 gasoline stations over alleged unjustified fuel price increases.

She warned that establishments found to have committed violations could face sanctions. “Kapag po napakita rito na sila po ay may mga fraudulent acts, maaari po silang makanselan ang permit sa kanilang mga transaction,” she said.

The Palace press officer said the President is urging both businesses and the public to cooperate as global developments continue to influence fuel prices.

“Ngayon po, ang panawagan ng Pangulo ay magkaisa tayo. Kung ano po ang nangyayari ngayon sa Middle East, dapat po tayong magkaisa at magtulungan,” Castro said.

“Hindi tayo kinakailangang maghatakan pababa,” she added. Castro also cautioned businesses against exploiting the current situation.

“Ang gusto po ng Pangulo ay magtulungan tayo. Kapag kayo po ay nagsamantala, meron po kayong kalalagyan,” she said.

“Kayo ay madedemanda at maaaring matanggalan pa kayo ng pagkakataon na kayo ay makapagnegosyo,” she added.

Castro reiterated that companies that take advantage of the current situation may face legal action and other corresponding penalties.