MARCH 30, 2026 — Senator Bam Aquino is turning up the heat on Malacañang, demanding a nationwide price freeze as fuel and commodity costs soar due to the Middle East war. With diesel up by another ₱20 per liter and gasoline by ₱10, the senator warns that Pinoys are already struggling badly and need urgent relief.

Aquino’s strong words: “Mag-price freeze na sila.” 

(They should impose a price freeze now.) 

His frustration stems from Malacañang’s hesitation, saying it is still weighing the impact of such a move on all sectors. For Aquino, the hesitation is costly. He argues that a state of national emergency — not just an energy emergency — would give government the legal muscle to cap prices of basic goods and mobilize aid faster.

You see, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently issued Executive Order No. 110, declaring a state of national energy emergency. But Aquino insists this is too narrow. He points out that under a broader state of national emergency or calamity, local governments could tap their quick response funds and the national government could enforce stronger price controls. 

Right now, the EO leaves too many questions unanswered — like whether LGUs can extend immediate assistance to their constituents.

When fuel prices spike, everything else follows. Transport fares, food costs, even the price of cooking gas — all climb. For families already juggling bills and debts, a price freeze could be the difference between surviving the month or going hungry. Aquino’s call resonates because it’s not abstract policy talk — it’s about the daily struggle of jeepney drivers, market vendors, and wage earners who can’t stretch their pesos any further.

Malacañang’s cautious stance feels detached from the urgency on the ground. We don’t need more “weighing of options.” We need decisive action. A price freeze may not solve the crisis, but it buys time and breathing space. And in times of crisis, time is everything.

Will the government side with the struggling masses, or keep stalling while prices climb beyond our reach?

(Image: Senate of the Philippines | Facebook)