Lawmaker warns of food crisis as fuel and fertilizer costs soar

A fuel pump shock now ripples far beyond transport costs, as calls mount for urgent tax relief amid warnings of a worsening food and energy crisis.

Senator Bam Aquino has warned of a deepening cost-of-living and energy crisis, urging immediate government action as fuel prices continue to rise and basic commodity prices follow.

Aquino cited diesel prices breaching P150 per liter and LPG reaching about P1,600 per tank, saying the increases are placing heavy pressure on households and key sectors of the economy.

During a Senate Committee on Agriculture hearing, he said the impact of global fuel hikes driven by tensions in the Middle East is already being felt by farmers, fisherfolk, small businesses, and transport workers.

He warned that even if geopolitical tensions ease, higher fuel and fertilizer costs are expected to continue affecting food production and market prices in the coming months.

Aquino also criticized delays in the suspension of excise taxes and value-added tax on petroleum products, noting that several countries have already implemented similar measures to cushion global price shocks.

He called for urgent action to protect consumers and stabilize essential sectors.

“Kailangang mabilis tayong gumalaw dito. Hindi tayo pwedeng papatay-patay. Kasi if we don’t move, if we don’t do the necessary programs, everyone will suffer,” he said.

He also warned of worsening food insecurity if prices continue to rise unchecked.

“Huwag po nating hintayin ang punto na kailangan pong mamili ang taong bayan kung sino po sa kanila ang kakain sa kanilang pamilya. Agaran po ang ating aksyon para matigil po natin ang patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng pagkain,” he added.

He reiterated the call for suspension of fuel excise taxes and a clearer government update on value-added tax policies on petroleum products.

He also urged measures to stabilize medicine supply as inflation continues to rise.

He said a coordinated response is needed across food markets, hospitals, and schools, warning that delays could further strain production and supply chains in the coming months.