A lawmaker is looking to investigate the impact of the of Russia-Ukraine war on the country’s energy security and affordability.
Gatchalian, who chaired the Senate Committee on Energy in the 18th Congress, filed Senate Resolution No. 78, pointing out that the increase in global oil and coal prices has affected the domestic market.
“There is a need for Congress to be apprised of the short, medium, and long-term effects and implications of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on the Philippine economy, in particular, the country’s oil supply and the effects of the continuous elevated global oil and coal prices on domestic oil and petroleum products,” Gatchalian said.
The senator noted a 22% increase in gasoline prices to Php77.71 per liter from Php63.58 per liter, and diesel prices increased by 49% percent to Php75.92 per liter from Php50.95 per liter in January.
“Hindi na kakayanin ng taong bayan ang palagiang pagtaas ng presyo ng produktong petrolyo na naging sanhi din ng pagtaas ng presyo ng mga pangunahing bilihin,” Gacthalian added.
Back in March, Gatchalian conducted hearings to come up with solutions and programs of the Department of Energy (DOE) and other agencies to help mitigate the country’s oil supply and prices.
