Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has ordered the removal of excise tax on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene, invoking his authority under Republic Act 12316 to cushion Filipino households from rising fuel costs. In a press briefing in Malaca±ang on Monday, the President said the move will immediately bring down prices.

According to Philippines News Agency, the President explained that this decision will result in a reduction of PHP3.36 per liter for LPG and PHP5.60 per liter for kerosene. Marcos emphasized that this reduction means lower costs for cooking and daily needs, which will provide significant relief to Filipino families.

Marcos also announced that possible adjustments to excise taxes on gasoline and diesel will be discussed in the upcoming meeting of the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) Committee on Tuesday. This tax relief initiative comes as global oil prices remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, prompting the government to implement targeted interventions to alleviate the impact on consumers.

LPG and kerosene play a vital role in cooking and basic household needs, especially among low-income families, making them essential in managing daily expenses. The measure is based on RA 12316, signed last month, which empowers the President to suspend or reduce excise taxes on petroleum products when global oil prices exceed specified thresholds.

This move is part of a broader strategy under the UPLIFT program, which also includes fuel subsidies for public utility vehicles and service contracting to support commuters.