Marcos Cuts Kerosene, LPG Tax, Waives Food Tariff in Philippines

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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the suspension of excise taxes on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene in the Philippines to alleviate everyday cost pressures. This decision, effective immediately, removes P3.36 per kilo from LPG, roughly reducing the cost by P37 per tank, and P5.56 per liter from kerosene prices. The announcement followed a press briefing held at Malacañang where Marcos emphasized the government's commitment to lessening the financial burden on consumers.

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The move comes amid increasing oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, specifically the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran. These events have resulted in a notable rise in inflation, which hit 4.1% in March, exceeding governmental targets. The Philippines, heavily reliant on imported fuel, has faced almost tripled domestic oil prices since the conflict's onset, exacerbating the economic strain on consumers.

The suspension of excise taxes is seen as a tool to stabilize household expenses; however, critics argue that more needs to be done. Transport groups have expressed dissatisfaction with the limited scope of the tax suspension, as taxes on diesel and gasoline remain. President Marcos indicated that the issue of other fuel products would be revisited in a cabinet meeting scheduled for the following day.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Philstar · 14 Apr 2026