Malacañang has acknowledged the efforts of local government units and the private sector to mitigate the effects of the Middle East crisis, particularly on vulnerable groups. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto highlighted initiatives like boosting fuel supplies and providing free transportation. He described these as a synergy ensuring the nation's energy security amid external pressures.
In a statement, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto listed initiatives by private companies and local governments to cushion the impact of soaring oil prices. These include Petron's commitment to secure stable fuel supplies from traditional and alternative sources, exemplified by the quick arrival of Russian oil.
Energy officials, led by Secretary Sharon Garin, secured 1.04 million barrels of diesel through oil diplomacy, with the first batch arriving this week. Indonesia has guaranteed steady coal supplies, and new Malampaya wells will come online in the last quarter of the year.
Recto backed government measures like fuel discounts for a quarter-million public transport drivers, upcoming aid for farmers and fishermen, and energy conservation efforts. President Marcos recently signed a law empowering him to reduce or suspend excise taxes on petroleum products.
He commended Manila for subsidizing thousands of jeepneys for free rides and Quezon City for expanding free bus services. Recto called these examples of 'damayan,' a Filipino tradition of mutual aid to weather the crisis together.
