Progressive lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s announcement to cut excise taxes on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene, calling it a token measure that sidesteps the more pressing burdens of fuel excise taxes and value-added tax (VAT).
ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio, Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Sarah Elago, and Kabataan Rep. Renee Louise Co said the move was “pakitang-tao” (mere show), noting that excise taxes on diesel and gasoline remain untouched, while VAT continues to inflate transport fares, electricity costs, and basic goods.
The legislators also accused the administration of exploiting LPG industry pledges to cut prices immediately, while allowing oil companies to delay reductions for up to 15 days by applying them only to incoming stocks.
“Nililinlang ang publiko sa ‘agarang ginhawa’ habang pinapahintulutan ang mga kumpanya na ipagpaliban ang bawas-presyo,” the bloc said.
Makabayan reiterated that genuine relief requires confronting regressive fuel taxes, addressing VAT on oil, and curbing profiteering in a deregulated market.
“Anything less will remain an exercise in managing public outrage rather than protecting people’s lives and livelihoods,” the statement concluded.#
