House Energy panel chair Mikey Arroyo to House: Push for fuel excise tax suspension, lower power costs

MANILA, Philippines — After the canvassing of votes and as Congress resumes session, House Energy Committee Chair and Pampanga 2nd district Representative Juan Miguel “Mikey” Arroyo is calling on the House of Representative to continue pushing for the suspension of fuel excise tax to help cushion the impact of rising fuel and oil prices.

“I’m hoping we can prioritize the deliberations to suspend excise tax on fuel because our Kababayans can’t afford expensive fuel anymore. Ang dami nang hindi namamasada sa taas ng presyo ng petrolyo. Hirap na din magbook ang tao sa ride-sharing apps. Madami ang nape-pwerwisyo. Congress should act on this immediately”,

Arroyo reiterated that the government can rely on its windfall revenue if excise taxes are scrapped. “The government can afford it because we generated high revenue when oil prices in the world market went beyond $70 per barrel. We have about P35 to P40 million in windfall revenue from VAT. Let’s use that to ease the burden of our consumers,” Arroyo explained.

Arroyo continues to play a crucial role in the country’s energy sector–pushing for measures and legislation that prioritizes the welfare and security of Filipino consumers.

Among the crucial energy bills Arroyo passed include the Microgrid Act which aims to provide electricity to far-flung areas and communities.

The Extension of Lifeline Rates which will continue to provide government subsidies for another ten years for marginalized electricity consumers who are unable to pay for their electricity bills. The LPG Industry Regulation Act which aims to protect consumers from malpractices of the LPG industry and the Renewable Energy Act, which Arroyo considers the most important legislation he passed.

“I agree with presumptive president (Ferdinand “Bongbong”) Marcos that renewable energy is the way to go. We should study these new technologies to further develop the country’s energy sector as well as keep up with the power demand. Marami sa ating mga kababayan ang makikinabang sa malinis, safe, at murang supply ng enerhiya. Environment-friendly na, affordable pa. Win-win talaga”, Arroyo said.

Arroyo also wants to further study the EPIRA law and the structure of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to update its rules and regulations and ensure its compatibility with today’s new system and technologies.

/MUF