Energy

Marcos May Order Fuel Excise Tax Cut, Suspension by April 12 or 13 | INQToday

INQUIRER.net
INQUIRER.net•Mar 26, 2026

Why It Matters

A fuel excise tax cut would immediately lower gasoline prices, easing inflation for Filipino consumers, while also trimming government revenue and signaling the Marcos administration’s willingness to intervene in volatile oil markets.

Key Takeaways

  • •President Marcos may sign fuel tax cut by April 13.
  • •DOF Undersecretary cites 15‑day publication rule for executive order.
  • •Law triggers when Dubai crude averages $80 per barrel for a month.
  • •Development Budget Coordination Committee to recommend suspension before deadline.
  • •Senate fast‑tracked bill, citing urgency amid rising fuel costs.

Summary

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is poised to issue an executive order suspending or reducing excise taxes on petroleum products as early as April 12‑13, following the enactment of a new law on March 25 that grants him that authority. The Department of Finance’s Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) is tasked with recommending the action, and the law stipulates a 15‑day publication period before the order takes effect.

The legislation requires two conditions: Dubai‑linked crude oil prices must average at least $80 per barrel for a month, and the DBCC must submit its recommendation. Undersecretary Carlo Adriano confirmed the price trigger has already been met, and the DBCC is slated to finalize its advice by early next week, aligning with the April 13 deadline.

Senators highlighted the urgency, noting the bill’s fast‑track certification and the Senate’s priority to alleviate fuel costs. “We hope to act with urgency legally by April 12 or 13,” Senator Bamakina said, underscoring the political pressure to deliver immediate relief.

If approved, the tax cut could lower pump prices, ease inflationary pressures, and boost consumer spending, while reducing government revenue at a time of fiscal tightening. Markets will watch the move for signals on the administration’s broader economic strategy and its responsiveness to global oil price volatility.

Original Description

President Bongbong Marcos may order the suspension or reduction of excise taxes on petroleum products by April 12 or 13, according to an official of the Department of Finance.

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