Cebu’s drivers and farmers are feeling the heat—not just from rising temperatures, but from diesel prices hitting P129 per liter as global supply uncertainties persist.
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Governor Pamela Baricuatro are urging the government to provide clear timelines for fuel assistance, warning that planning alone is not enough to prevent a potential energy crisis.
During the recent Regional Development Council in Central Visayas (RDC 7) Full Council Meeting, Archival highlighted the pressure on transport operators and questioned whether authorities have a system in place to manage fuel rationing if shortages occur.
He suggested assigning specific fuel stations per barangay to ensure fair distribution in case rationing becomes necessary.
National Policy and Planning Staff Director Desiree Joy O. Narvaez said the government is drafting operational guidelines for possible interventions.
Priority sectors, particularly food and health, have already been identified. She added that a draft operational timeline is expected next week, while consultations with the Executive Secretary and President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. continue.
The Department of Energy is reportedly finalizing its rationing system, including which agencies will implement it, with local governments to be informed if any pilot programs or early testing take place.
Targeted aid is planned for drivers, farmers, fisherfolk, and vulnerable households.
The government is exploring excise tax suspensions that could reduce diesel prices by P6 per liter and gasoline by P10, although Narvaez noted that these reductions may not fully offset global price surges.
Baricuatro raised concerns over the uneven rollout of subsidies, pointing out that assistance has started in Metro Manila, while other areas remain without aid.
“What is the timeline here? Because it’s already being given in Manila, but outside, there is none,” she said.
Both Archival and Baricuatro stressed that local authorities need immediate clarity to prepare for possible fuel shortages, with transport and agriculture agencies overseeing distribution for their respective sectors. (SBA)
Image: Philippine News Agency
