THE DAVAO City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII) called for government intervention due to rising and volatile fuel prices to address the impact on businesses.
In a statement on Monday, DCCCII warned that without immediate and structural policy actions, the business will face a “potentially severe economic slowdown.”
The organization cited findings from the recent DCCCII Member Pulse Survey, which revealed that nearly one-third reported high impact, with operating costs increased to 21% to over 40% for a substantial number of businesses.
It recognized the measures taken by the government, but the prevailing outlook among respondents emphasized continued price increases on the ground despite government restrictions.
“Prolonged volatility, and a potentially severe economic slowdown if immediate interventions are not undertaken,” it emphasized.
The chamber called for immediate relief measures like requesting temporary fuel tax relief and/or expanded fuel subsidies for public transport, trucking and delivery, agriculture, fisheries, and MSMEs.
The group recommended these measures remain in place for at least three months, subject to review as new national excise-tax suspension laws are implemented.
The chamber also called to create a Davao Fuel and Energy Task Force, responsible to stabilize prices and monitoring fuel prices in Davao to prevent overpricing.
The Task Force, consisting of the Davao City government, Department of Energy, business, and transport, should provide the public with clear weekly guidance and quickly implement local traffic and logistics measures that reduce fuel wastage and protect commuters and businesses.
The chamber also recommended the need for structural measures to reduce fuel dependency and support fuel-saving and alternative energy investments.
Proposed measures of the chamber include providing tax incentives and simplified permits for businesses investing in solar energy, fuel-efficient vehicles, and other cost-saving technologies, with emphasis on the micro, small, and medium enterprises.
The chamber also highlighted the need to improve logistics and traffic efficiency within Davao City, specifically calling to improve port operations and freight movement to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.
A public-private coordination mechanism is also urged to monitor energy developments and recommend timely actions to protect consumers and the business community alike.
“Establish a regular fuel and energy coordination platform in Davao City involving government agencies, business groups, transport representatives, and consumer sectors to monitor developments and recommend timely action,” the chamber stressed.
The chamber emphasized it is open and ready to work with the government and stakeholders to implement practical solutions that stabilize costs and, at the same time, protect businesses.
