Transport Groups Push Scrapping of Fuel Taxes

Transport groups staged a nationwide strike as they renewed calls for the removal of fuel taxes, warning that rising oil prices are crippling the industry.

Leaders of Manibela and PISTON urged the government to abolish both the 12% value-added tax and excise taxes on petroleum products, saying temporary suspensions are not enough.

Mody Floranda said drivers are struggling to survive as fuel costs continue to eat into their daily income, while Mar Valbuena warned that the transport sector is nearing collapse if no immediate action is taken.

Aside from tax removal, the groups are also pushing for a fuel price rollback to ₱55 per liter, fare increases, and the repeal of the oil deregulation law.

Protest actions were held in multiple areas nationwide, with participation from jeepney drivers, bus operators, TNVS drivers, and tricycle groups.

Despite the disruptions, the Philippine National Police reported that rallies remained peaceful, while government agencies rolled out “libreng sakay” programs to assist affected commuters.

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board said it is coordinating with the Development Bank of the Philippines to possibly ease loan penalties for transport operators struggling with rising costs.