Protesters in Davao Demand End to Oil Price Hikes, Criticize Government Inaction
Progressive groups, including Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN)-Southern Mindanao and Kadamay-Davao, along with various sectoral organizations, held a protest on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Freedom Park in Davao City. They called for an immediate halt to oil price hikes and strongly denounced government inaction on pressing issues of poverty and corruption. The rally followed recent fuel price increases that have burdened Filipinos across the nation.
Voices from the Rally: Calls for Relief and Accountability
Rauf Sissay, a secretariat member of BAYAN–Southern Mindanao, highlighted the severe impact of continuous fuel price increases on ordinary citizens. He noted that petroleum product prices have exceeded P120 per liter in some areas and warned of further rises, pushing drivers and consumers deeper into hardship. "But amid the severe hardship being felt by the masses, the actions of the Bongbong Marcos administration remain minimal and merely band-aid solutions," Sissay stated, criticizing the government's response as inadequate.
Leon Bolcan, chair emeritus of Kadamay-Davao, emphasized the need for immediate relief for those affected by rising fuel costs. He urged authorities to implement several measures to alleviate the burden:
- Scrap the Value-Added Tax (VAT) and excise taxes on fuel.
- Repeal the oil deregulation law to increase government control over the industry.
- Raise wages to a family living wage to support households struggling with inflation.
Bolcan added, "In the coming weeks until May 1, we will continue to call for lower prices of goods and higher wages. Hold Marcos Jr. accountable for his inaction and failure to listen to the poor."
Broader Concerns: Workweek Proposals and Insufficient Aid
BAYAN also raised alarms over a proposed four-day workweek, expressing concerns that it might be implemented without guarantees of additional wages or benefits for workers. The group argued that such a change could exacerbate financial struggles if not paired with fair compensation.
Additionally, BAYAN criticized the government's P5,000 aid package for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators, deeming it insufficient amid skyrocketing fuel and commodity prices. The group pointed out that the administration lacks a comprehensive energy plan and alternative fuel supply, urging officials to develop solutions that prioritize the needs of marginalized sectors.
Support from Transport Groups: Drivers and Riders Join the Cause
Public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers in Davao City echoed the protesters' demands, calling for lower fuel prices and the removal of VAT on petroleum products. They reported that rising costs have significantly reduced their daily earnings, making it difficult to sustain their livelihoods. The drivers proposed specific actions:
- Remove VAT and excise taxes on fuel to lower prices.
- Roll back fuel prices to P55 per liter to make it more affordable.
- Implement fare increases across all transport modes to offset operational costs.
- Establish a P1,200 family living wage to support households.
Furthermore, the drivers advocated for greater government control of the oil industry to ensure stable and affordable fuel prices. They also expressed opposition to ongoing international conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, citing concerns over global oil market instability.
The United Davao Delivery Riders Association (Uddra) joined the chorus, urging the national government to remove excise tax and VAT on fuel. The group warned that rising prices are cutting into riders' incomes, and when combined with company-imposed schemes, further reduce take-home pay, exacerbating financial hardships for delivery workers.
Recent Price Hikes and Ongoing Challenges
Oil companies have announced another round of price increases, adding to the protesters' urgency. According to recent reports:
- Diesel prices are set to increase by approximately P12.50 to P12.90 per liter.
- Gasoline prices will rise by P1 to P2.90 per liter.
- Kerosene prices are expected to increase by around P2 to P2.40 per liter.
These hikes underscore the ongoing economic challenges faced by Filipinos, particularly in transport and delivery sectors, fueling calls for government intervention and policy reforms to address the root causes of inflation and poverty.
