FARMERS PROTEST GARIN’S REMARK DISMISSING OIL SHORTAGE

A peasant group, Anakpawis, criticized Energy Secretary Sharon Garin for downplaying the country’s oil situation, saying that rising fuel prices threaten the survival of farmers, fisherfolk, workers, and the urban poor.

Garin has maintained there is no supply crisis, noting that the Philippines has more than 30 days of fuel inventory and is preparing for additional stocks.

Anakpawis called the government’s response “slow and insufficient,” noting that subsidies for affected sectors are being delayed until after Holy Week despite price surges beginning in January.

The group also expressed support for a nationwide transport strike, blaming rising fuel costs for reduced earnings among jeepney drivers and higher production expenses for farmers and fisherfolk.

Economists and the group argued that a stable supply alone does not prevent a crisis if fuel remains unaffordable, urging the government to address the economic burden on ordinary Filipinos.

Source: PhilNews24 | March 22, 2026