President Marcos Formally Requests Emergency Powers to Slash Fuel Tax Amid Middle East Turmoil
In a decisive move to address escalating fuel costs, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is set to formally petition Congress for emergency powers aimed at reducing excise taxes on petroleum products. This urgent request comes as the ongoing crisis in the Middle East threatens to drive up global oil prices, impacting consumers nationwide.
Official Confirmation and Submission Timeline
Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed that the Department of Energy (DOE) will act as the President's representative in submitting the formal request to Congress. This delegation occurs because President Marcos is currently in New York for a two-day working visit. The submission is scheduled for Monday, March 9, 2026, marking a critical step in the administration's response to the economic pressures stemming from international conflicts.
Trigger Mechanism and Legislative Engagement
President Marcos has previously indicated that he would engage with Congressional leaders to secure authority for reducing excise taxes on fuel products. The proposed emergency measure would be activated if the price of Dubai crude oil exceeds $80 per barrel. According to Marcos, this initiative is designed as an immediate response to mitigate the effects of the Middle East conflict, with plans to implement it swiftly once the regional tensions subside.
DOE Crackdown on Unjustified Price Hikes
In a related development, the Department of Energy has issued show-cause orders against 54 gas stations accused of improperly raising gasoline prices. Castro noted that she discussed this matter with Energy Secretary Sharon Garin, who highlighted that numerous gasoline stations have implemented price increases without adequate justification. This enforcement action underscores the government's broader efforts to stabilize fuel markets and protect consumers from unfair pricing practices during this period of uncertainty.
