Filipino consumers, grappling with a rapid surge in the prices of essential goods, are intensifying their call for the government to address the root causes of inflation, which a recent survey by Pulse Asia identified as the most urgent national concern for 54% of Filipinos.
In an interview on DZRH’s Isyung Pambayan, Rodolfo “RJ” Javellana Jr., President of the United Filipino Consumers and Commuters (UFCC), argued that current economic policies, rather than global factors alone, are primary drivers of the crisis, leaving ordinary families struggling to afford basic necessities.
Key Issues and Policy Failures
Javellana pinpointed specific laws and market structures as major contributors to the inflationary pressure. He heavily criticized the Oil Deregulation Law, stating it allows a select few to dictate fuel prices, which subsequently inflates the cost of transportation, manufacturing, and end-products for consumers.
“If the price of oil is high because of the oil deregulation law, it will be passed by the leaders, the so-called capitalists, to the buyers of these products,” Javellana explained. “So the end product will be rejected by the consumers, whether they like it or not.”
He also identified the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law as a significant burden, specifically its excise taxes on fuel. He called for the removal of these taxes to provide immediate relief at the pumps.
Furthermore, Javellana highlighted the stranglehold of cartels in critical industries like cement and heavy goods. He asserted that this control over basic commodities and construction materials keeps the economy under the dominion of a few businessmen and politicians, preventing fair pricing.
Impact on Ordinary Filipinos
The UFCC President underscored the severe disconnect between current wages and the actual cost of living. He cited the stark difference between the estimated living wage of ₱1,200 and the actual wages received by workers, which can be as low as ₱600 in Metro Manila and even less in provinces.
“The value of the salary is different. That’s where it shrinks,” Javellana stated, emphasizing that such incomes are insufficient for families to cover electricity, medicine, and other essential expenses.
Call for Radical Action and Transparency
With the Christmas season approaching, Javellana warned that the situation could worsen as some sectors might take advantage of increased demand. He called for more than piecemeal solutions, demanding “radical action or real change” in the country’s economic position.
He urged for a shift towards pro-consumer and pro-Filipino laws that prioritize citizens over oligarchs. Javellana also emphasized the need to eradicate corruption at all levels of government and in private companies, and to break up political dynasties that concentrate wealth and projects.
“The citizens should talk about it… it should be very transparent,” he said, criticizing government bodies for holding closed-door hearings away from public scrutiny.
Javellana’s final message was a call for systemic reform, stating that the nation’s major economic policies on deregulation and liberalization need to be addressed to build a resilient economy that can withstand international market fluctuations and external shocks.
The interview concluded with a plea for a government with genuine accountability to its citizens, ensuring that Filipinos can hope for a “smiling Christmas and New Year” without the fear of relentless price hikes.
The interview was conducted amid growing public anxiety over inflation, which has been fueled by rising costs of electricity, water, raw materials, food, and fuel. The Pulse Asia survey confirms that controlling inflation is the top priority for a majority of Filipinos#
