Tulfo Warns Politicians: 'Wag Kayo Mag-Epal sa Fuel Subsidy Distribution

Senator Erwin Tulfo isn't mincing words — he wants politicians to keep their hands off the fuel subsidy distribution meant for PUV drivers and fisherfolk. In a stern warning issued Sunday, March 15, Tulfo called out 'epal' politicians who try to politicize government aid for personal gain.

'We have policies in place prohibiting the intervention of politicians. Those caught using this crisis as a tool for political motives must be punished,' the senator said. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development, Tulfo has been pushing hard to separate politics from public assistance.

The senator previously fought for provisions in the 2026 General Appropriations Act banning politicians from participating in aid distribution. This was followed by DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2026-006, which formally prohibited such grandstanding. Last February, Tulfo also revived the 'Anti-Epal Act' through Senate Bill No. 1750, which seeks to permanently bar elected officials from distributing government financial aid.

But Tulfo isn't just about keeping politicians in check — he's also pushing for a more inclusive fuel subsidy. During a Senate Ways and Means Committee hearing on March 11, he warned against limiting tax relief to diesel-based sectors only. He pointed out that 8.5 million Filipinos rely on motorcycles daily for work and livelihood, and they shouldn't be left behind.

'There are 8.5 million Filipinos who use motorcycles on a daily basis; many of them use it to go to work and others use it for their livelihood. What will happen to them if we do not include gasoline in the suspension?' Tulfo asked. With fuel prices continuing to climb amid the Middle East crisis, the pressure is on to ensure that relief reaches everyone who needs it — without the political circus.

Source: Manila Bulletin