Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III on Monday rallied the House of Representatives to pursue legislation and policy measures to shield Filipinos from the effects of oil price shocks brought about by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In a statement, Dy said lawmakers and House committees will push priority bills aimed at cushioning the impact of rising oil prices on key sectors of the economy, particularly workers, commuters, farmers, and small businesses.
“Kasama po ng aking kapwa-mambabatas at ng iba’t ibang Komite, kami po ay walang humpay na magsusulong ng mga priority bills at mga hakbang na makakatulong upang mapagaan ang epekto ng mga pandaigdigang krisis sa ating mga kababayan (With our colleagues and various committees, we will relentlessly push for priority bills and other steps that will help ease the effects of the global crisis on our countrymen),” Dy said.
“We recognize that this is a challenge we must face head on, which is why the House of Representatives will work with the Executive to focus on measures that will help cushion the effects of rising oil prices on the various sectors of our economy—especially our workers, commuters, farmers, and small businesses.”
The Speaker from Isabela said escalating tensions in the Middle East show how developments abroad can directly affect the Philippines, particularly through rising oil prices that burden Filipino families.
He said it is only natural for people to feel fear and concern when oil prices rise, as this drives up transportation fares, food, and other basic necessities.
Despite these challenges, Dy assured the public that Congress remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of Filipinos.
“Ang Kapulungan ng mga Kinatawan po ay patuloy na ginagampanan ang mandato nitong pangalagaan ang kapakanan ng sambayanang Pilipino (The House of Representatives will continue to fulfill its mandate to safeguard the welfare of the Filipino people),” he said.
Dy said the House will focus on policies that strengthen the economy, protect the livelihoods of ordinary Filipinos, and ensure their safety and well-being.
The House chief also called for unity as the country confronts global uncertainty.
“We have confronted challenging moments before, and each time the strength and unity of the Filipino people have carried us through. Napatunayan na po natin na kapag tayo ay nagbubuklud-buklod at nagmamalasakit sa isa’t isa, walang hamon na hindi natin kayang lampasan (We have proven that when we unite and care for each other, no challenge cannot be overcome),” Dy said.
He also assured the public that government institutions will continue working to protect Filipinos and guide the country through global challenges. (PNA)
