Erwin Tulfo has backed calls for the temporary suspension of the excise tax on petroleum products as global oil prices surge due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

Tulfo said the measure would ease the burden on Filipino consumers, warning that failing to act would trigger not only higher fuel prices but also increases in food costs, transport fares, and other basic commodities. He expressed confidence that his fellow lawmakers would support the proposal, recognizing its potential to provide immediate relief to the public.

While acknowledging concerns from the government’s economic managers about possible revenue losses from suspending the tax, Tulfo stressed that public welfare must come first. He said that in the current situation, the needs of ordinary Filipinos outweigh the projected decline in government funds.

Under the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law, or TRAIN Law, excise taxes on fuel are automatically suspended if global oil prices reach an average of $80 per barrel for three consecutive months. At that level, the government is also mandated to release fuel subsidies for the transport and agriculture sectors to mitigate the impact on commuters and farmers.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri also expressed support for granting the President authority to reduce or suspend the excise tax on fuel, underscoring the need for swift government action to address the cascading effects of rising oil prices on electricity and food costs.