EXPLANATION OF VOTE
An Act Authorizing the President to Suspend or Reduce the Excise Tax on Petroleum Products, Amending for the Purpose Article 148 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended
Senate Bill No. 1982 under Committee Report No. 48
Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada
March 17, 2026
I vote a resounding yes to this urgent measure authorizing the President to swiftly and decisively intervene amid the soaring fuel prices, which affects us all Filipinos, but most especially the ordinary consumers and households.
This is a critical measure as we navigate and weather the ongoing crisis triggered by violent conflict in the Middle East.
Ang sunod-sunod na pagtaas sa presyo ng gasolina, diesel at kerosene, at pagpapatupad ng “mega oil price hike” ng mga fuel retailers nitong mga nakaraang linggo ay inaasahan nating magkakaroon ng domino effect sa presyo ng mga pangunahing bilihin at araw-araw na gastusin ng bawat pamilya.
Just this morning, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) approved an across-the-board fare increase for jeepneys, buses, and taxis up to the transportation network vehicle services (TNVS), which is expected to add to the already heavy burden of the commuting public.
Gaya ng aking paglalarawan sa aking co-sponsorship remarks, ang panukalang ito ay magsisilbing preno sa mabilis na pagsirit sa presyo ng petrolyo, at isang paraan upang maibsan ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan.
Thank you, Mr. President.