Diesel Price Rollback Next Week? Mas Malaki Ang Posibleng Bawas, Sabi sa Early Estimate
Diesel prices may drop by as much as P6.50 per liter next week as global oil trends turn favorable.
Motorists may finally get a bit of relief next week after a fresh industry estimate showed diesel prices could fall by P5.50 to P6.50 per liter, a much bigger rollback than earlier projections. Gasoline is also expected to go down, though by a smaller amount of about P1 per liter.
According to the report, the latest forecast is based on the Mean of Platts, Singapore, which is used as the pricing benchmark for refined petroleum products in Southeast Asia. An industry source said prices are easing as the expected ceasefire between the United States and Iran is seen holding despite recent tensions.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the projected rollback reflects more favorable global market trends. She added that if the pattern continues, consumers could see lower pump prices alongside government relief measures already being prepared for the transport sector.
Among the options on the table is a possible suspension or reduction of fuel excise tax, which President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to decide on next week. Garin said the Department of Energy has already certified that Dubai crude averaged above the legal threshold for a month, a condition that could allow tax adjustment under Republic Act 12316. If approved, diesel prices could drop by around P6 per liter and gasoline by P10 per liter.
Government agencies are also rolling out support for public utility vehicle operators, including a P10 per liter fuel subsidy pilot in Metro Manila and a separate service contracting program starting April 15. Still, transport group Manibela said the aid remains too limited for many drivers. Source: The Manila Times
