In a social media post on Tuesday, March 24, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian urged the national government to move fast and act decisively in addressing the impact of the global oil crisis driven by ongoing conflict in the Middle East on the daily lives of Filipinos.
Gatchalian said that while the Philippines is far from the war, Filipinos certainly feel its consequences. He expressed particular concern for the welfare of jeepney drivers, who are struggling to cope with the rising fuel costs.
“We cannot waste time,” the seasoned legislator said. “Dapat maging prayoridad ng pamahalaan ang paglatag ng malinaw na plano upang tugunan ang inflation, tiyakin ang suplay ng enerhiya, at maprotektahan ang trabaho ng mga Pilipino.”
(The government must prioritize laying out clear plans to address inflation, ensure energy supply, and protect the jobs of Filipinos.)
Gatchalian strongly urged all branches of government to take the necessary actions and help ease the burden of ordinary citizens amid economic uncertainties.
The senator on Tuesday led a Senate public hearing on the establishment of a Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee.
The measure aims to address issues and challenges confronting the country arising from, and in relation to, the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
