In a decisive response to the ongoing global oil crisis, the Bacolod City Council has approved a resolution urging all barangays within the city to suspend, scale down, or defer their traditional fiesta celebrations. The measure prioritizes essential services and social support programs over non-essential spending during this period of economic strain.
Addressing the Impact of Escalating Fuel Prices
Councilor Caesar Distrito, the author of the resolution, emphasized that the action highlights the severe impact of skyrocketing fuel prices. These increases are driven by persistent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which continue to disrupt global oil supply chains and significantly raise the cost of living for residents.
The burden is particularly heavy on public utility drivers, minimum wage earners, and low-income families, who are struggling to cope with daily expenses. Distrito, who chairs the City Council committee on human resource and development, stated that while fiestas are a cherished cultural tradition, the current crisis demands a shift in priorities.
Redirecting Funds to Critical Social Support
The resolution strongly encourages barangays to realign funds originally intended for fiesta activities toward several key areas of assistance. These include providing fuel subsidy programs for public utility drivers and other essential transport sectors, offering financial aid and social amelioration for indigent families and vulnerable groups, and supporting food assistance and livelihood initiatives.
Additionally, the measure advocates for strengthening emergency and contingency response mechanisms to better prepare the community for ongoing challenges. "This is a time to prioritize food on the table, support for our drivers, and assistance for vulnerable families over non-essential spending," Distrito added, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Legal Authority and Cultural Sensitivity
Distrito noted that local government units are empowered under existing laws to promote general welfare, especially during times of economic hardship. He clarified that the resolution does not call for a complete cancellation of fiestas, recognizing their importance to spiritual and cultural beliefs.
"Fiesta is not being cancelled, being part of our spiritual and cultural beliefs, but due to the crisis we are facing, we need to scale it down, and channel the saved fiesta celebration budget to social support programs," he explained. "Anyway, they can celebrate it by next year once this war ends."
Encouraging Simpler Observances
The City Council also encouraged barangays to adopt simpler, low-cost, and community-based observances that preserve cultural traditions without placing an additional financial burden on local resources. This approach aims to balance respect for heritage with the practical needs of the community during the crisis.
By taking these steps, Bacolod City aims to mitigate the effects of the global oil crisis, ensuring that vital support reaches those most in need while maintaining a connection to its cultural roots through modified celebrations.
