The Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCCII) is calling for immediate government intervention to address rising and volatile fuel prices, warning that delays could put businesses in Davao City at risk.
In a statement, the chamber urged the implementation of short-term relief measures, including temporary fuel tax cuts and expanded subsidies for critical sectors such as public transport, logistics, agriculture, and fisheries.
The group also proposed the creation of a dedicated fuel and energy task force involving the local government, the Department of Energy (DOE), and industry stakeholders. The body would be tasked with closely monitoring fuel prices, preventing overpricing, and rolling out targeted interventions to reduce fuel consumption.
DCCCII’s push comes as businesses continue to grapple with rising operational costs driven by fuel price fluctuations. Based on its recent Member Pulse Survey, nearly one-third of firms reported significant impact, with expenses increasing by as much as 21% to over 40%.
The chamber warned that these cost pressures are forcing companies to either pass on increases to consumers or absorb shrinking margins, threatening profitability and business continuity, particularly among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Despite existing measures, business sentiment remains cautious. The group noted that many expect continued price increases, prolonged volatility, and a potential economic slowdown if decisive action is not taken.
Beyond immediate relief, DCCCII emphasized the need for long-term solutions, including incentives for renewable energy adoption, fuel-efficient technologies, and improvements in logistics, port operations, and traffic management to reduce unnecessary fuel use.
It also called for stronger coordination between the public and private sectors through a dedicated platform that can monitor fuel trends and recommend timely policy responses.
“DCCCII stands ready to work with government and stakeholders to implement practical solutions that stabilize costs, protect businesses, and sustain growth,” the chamber said.
