Implementation of a P10 per liter fuel subsidy for public utility vehicles (PUV), discounts on train rides, terminal fee reductions in ports, distribution of cash assistance, and more. These interventions were among the highlights of the 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which served as the government’s response to the oil crisis brought by the tension between Iran and the USA.

“Kaya ko kayong harapin at sabihin na ginawa natin ang lahat ng nararapat upang malunasan ang mga epekto ng krisis,” the President said

[“I can face you and say that we did all necessary actions to resolve the effects of crisis.”]

However, for PISTON National President Mody Floranda, these interventions of the government are insufficient. For him, scrapping or amending the Oil Deregulation Law would be a greater relief for drivers.

“Dapat na binanggit ni BBM yung pagbasura dito sa Oil Deregulation Law kasi 29 years na namamayagpag itong batas na ito; 29 years na rin na tutuloy-tuloy na pinahirapan yung hindi lamang ang mga driver, kundi ang ating mga commuters, ang ating mamamayan,” he said

[“BBM should have mentioned the repealing of the Oil Deregulation Law because this has been in place for 29 years; for 29 years, the law has continuously burdened not just the drivers, but also the consumers, and the public.”]

Just in case the law is repealed, the oil price control will go back to the hands of the government.

Also, the transport group PISTON condemned the expected fuel price hike.

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