Economic managers, led by the Development Budget Coordination Committee, said suspending excise taxes on diesel and gasoline would offer limited relief and mainly benefit higher-income groups, opting instead for targeted subsidies.
Finance Undersecretary Karlo Adriano said a P10-per-liter fuel subsidy will be given to public utility vehicle drivers, while Frederick Go defended selective tax cuts on LPG and kerosene as fiscally responsible.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has already ordered reduced excise taxes on select fuels, though the exclusion of diesel drew criticism from sectors and lawmakers like Erwin Tulfo.
The Bureau of Customs warned of potential revenue losses from the tax cuts, but officials said broader economic stability remains the priority.
Meanwhile, rising fuel prices have reduced LPG demand, prompting some households to shift to cheaper alternatives such as charcoal and firewood.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 15, 2026
