Malacañang states that the decision to repeal the Oil Deregulation Law rests with Congress, especially amid continuing increases in fuel prices influenced by regional conflicts.
Malacañang Palace remarked on March 17, 2026, that the determination to repeal the Oil Deregulation Law (Republic Act No. 8479) lies solely with the Philippine Congress. This statement came amid calls for legislative action due to the persistent rise in fuel prices, linked in part to tensions in the Middle East. At a press briefing in Cebu, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro emphasized that Congress holds the prerogative to decide on measures they consider beneficial for the country. If lawmakers manage to present a proposal that the President views as advantageous, particularly for national welfare, opposition from the executive branch is unlikely. The Oil Deregulation Law, enacted in 1998, aimed to liberalize the downstream oil industry to promote fair market competition, ensure adequate supply, and maintain environmentally friendly, high-quality petroleum products. However, some legislators have recently proposed scrapping this law to enable stricter control over fuel pricing. The Department of Energy (DOE) has clarified that under the current law, it lacks authority to impose price caps on fuel products, signaling limited means to immediately curb price fluctuations. DOE Secretary Sharon Garin noted that although amending the deregulation law could prove beneficial going forward, no existing provision empowers the department to enforce fuel price ceilings. Projected fuel price adjustments for March 17 to 23 showed increases: diesel prices ranging from ₱20.40 to ₱23.90 per liter, gasoline from ₱12.90 to ₱16.60, and kerosene from ₱6.90 to ₱8.90. The government continues to monitor the situation amidst global uncertainties affecting oil markets.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/980295/repealing-oil-deregulation-law-palace-says-up-to-congress/story/
