Leni Robredo on Tuesday welcomed the P20-per-liter rollback in diesel prices that took effect this week, describing it as a “very welcome development” that could provide relief to the public.
The rollback was confirmed by Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, who said she met with local oil companies on Sunday to finalize the price reduction. The adjustment came amid a sharp rise in fuel costs, with diesel prices having more than doubled since February.
Robredo said the rollback would “somehow give ease” to consumers, particularly those in the transport sector who have been bearing the brunt of rising fuel prices. However, she noted that the P20 cut remains insufficient compared to the magnitude of previous increases.
“The rollback is a welcome relief, but it still does not offset the steep increases we have seen in recent months,” the mayor said.
She added that the city government is prepared to extend assistance to public transport drivers to help augment their income. Robredo said the local government is also exploring measures to prevent fare hikes and spare commuters from additional financial burden.
“Our goal is to help stabilize fares so that the riding public will not be further burdened,” she said.
Robredo also expressed hope for continued fuel price rollbacks, stressing their impact on the cost of basic goods, especially food.
“My wish is to have a continuing rollback on fuel prices so that the prices of basic commodities, especially food, will not go up,” she said. “If food prices increase, the poorest of the poor will be the first to suffer.” I via Jason Neola
