The City Council of Davao is set to conduct a more comprehensive inquiry into rising fuel prices next week, as Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz called on Monday for greater transparency and accountability from oil industry players during her privilege speech.
Dalodo-Ortiz, chair of the Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Industry, said the ongoing inquiry was prompted by increasing concern over how fuel price hikes are affecting transportation costs, basic goods, and the daily expenses of Dabawenyos.
“We continue to hear the concerns of our constituents. The rising cost of fuel has a direct impact on transportation, commodities, and the overall cost of living,” she said.
The latest council session shifted focus from national policies to local industry practices, with representatives from Petron Corporation, Insular Oil Corporation, My Gas, a petroleum depot representative, and Chevron Philippines (Sasa Depot) invited to present updates on supply and pricing.
During the session, oil companies assured the council that fuel supply remains stable, with stocks secured until the end of March and expected to cover April.
However, Dalodo-Ortiz pointed out that the information provided lacked depth.
“The responses we received were general and lacked the necessary details, particularly on the breakdown of gasoline pricing. Without concrete and data-driven information, it is difficult for the Council to fully assess the situation and propose effective measures,” she said.
She stressed that while the presence and cooperation of oil companies are appreciated, transparency is essential in ensuring accountability and protecting consumers.
“We value their participation, but transparency in pricing practices is crucial. Our goal is to understand clearly how prices are determined so we can respond appropriately,” Dalodo-Ortiz added.
In response, the committee has scheduled an expanded inquiry next week that will bring together a broader set of stakeholders.
These include national agencies such as the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
The local government offices including the City Legal Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the Davao City Police Office are also expected to attend.
The private sector representatives, including the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCCII) and oil industry stakeholders, may be invited anew, with the expectation that they will provide more detailed and data-driven submissions.
“We are hoping that through this expanded inquiry, we can gain a clearer understanding of fuel pricing mechanisms and come up with policies that will help ease the burden on our people,” Dalodo-Ortiz said.
