Since January 1 this year, the net increase in gasoline prices this year has reached ₱3.25, following five price hikes and only two rollbacks.

From January to March 11, oil companies raised prices by ₱1 (January 7), ₱0.80 (January 14), ₱1.65 (January 21), ₱0.80 (February 18), and ₱0.70 (February 25). Prices were lowered only by ₱0.90 on March 11 and ₱1.70 on March 11. However, in March 31, prices could be increased by up to ₱1.35 per liter.

The net increase in diesel prices has also exceeded ₱3 per liter, while kerosene prices have risen by ₱0.30 per liter during the same period.

In light of this, BAYAN MUNA Partylist 2nd Nominee Atty. Carlos Zarate this past week expressed disappointment in the government’s slow response. He said the Department of Energy (DOE) seemingly acts as a mere “spokesperson” for oil companies. It has failed to fulfill its role of “regulating” prices to protect the public’s interest.

“The continuous rise in oil prices without immediate action from the government highlights a lack of governance and protection for the people,” Zarate stated. He added that this is an additional burden on Filipinos, especially those in the transportation sector as well as ordinary consumers and commuters.