MANIBELA Chairman Mar Valbuena insisted that any drop in global crude prices must also be reflected in the Philippines.
His statement directly opposed Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Sharon Garin, who maintained that prices would remain high due to damage in Iran’s oil industry.
Valbuena argued that if Garin continues to defend oil companies instead of listening to drivers and passengers, she should step down.
He stressed that the transport sector is suffering heavily from soaring fuel costs.
Drivers of jeepneys, taxis, and delivery vehicles are struggling to sustain their livelihoods.
Valbuena emphasized that the government must act swiftly to ease their burden.
He warned that without immediate measures, the crisis will worsen for ordinary commuters. The transport group continues to call for decisive government action to bring relief to the sector.
