Philippines to Cushion Oil Price Hike for Workers

Southeast Asia


     Mar 18, 2005

Philippines to cushion oil price hike via subsidy

MANILA - The Philippine government plans to give incentives to private firms that would grant transport subsidies to their workers, to cushion the impact of the spate of oil-price hikes on the masses.

In an interview over a local radio station, press secretary Ignacio Bunye said on Wednesday the administration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is determined to give rewards to private firms that take extra steps to protect their workers against any possible increase in transport fares as a result of higher oil prices.

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He explained that the matter of amending the Oil Deregulation Law would require congressional action, although he said the panel tasked to review the law is already working on possible recommendations to Congress.

While such move is being pursued, he said, the citizens must also undertake capability-building initiatives and must be active and cooperative participants in the overall energy conservation scheme.

http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Southeast_Asia/GC18Ae02.html