Legarda files Bayanihan 3: Power to the People Act for oil crisis relief
Senator Loren Legarda has filed Senate Bill No. 2020, dubbed the Bayanihan 3: Power to the People Act, a comprehensive emergency measure designed to shield Filipino families from the 2026 global oil crisis. This comes as fuel firms announce significant price hikes for April 7, with diesel possibly reaching ₱170/liter, leading to motorists queuing at gas stations in areas like Bukidnon. The bill aims to reduce fuel and electricity costs, protect food supply, and provide direct relief to vulnerable sectors.
Senator Loren Legarda filed Senate Bill No. 2020, the "Bayanihan 3: Power to the People Act," on Monday, April 6, 2026, to grant the President emergency powers addressing the 2026 oil supply disruptions and rising fuel prices stemming from Middle East tensions. The bill proposes an initial P230 billion funding allocation from various sources including 2025 continuing appropriations, unreleased 2025 allotments, 2026 General Appropriations Act funds, and the Malampaya Fund to mitigate socio-economic impacts. It declares a national emergency and authorizes temporary measures like price controls on oil, rationalization of distribution, and fuel subsidies.
The comprehensive emergency measure includes P10 billion for farmers and fisherfolk through the Presidential Assistance for Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families (PAFF), plus monthly aid ranging from P5,000 to P10,000 for public utility vehicle drivers, small-scale farmers, fisherfolk, and agricultural transporters. Key provisions empower the Department of Energy and Department of Finance to manage the oil sector and impose stricter transparency requirements on oil companies regarding pricing and costs.
The emergency powers would activate upon newspaper publication and last for six months or until Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) crude oil prices drop below $80 per barrel for 30 consecutive days—whichever occurs first. The powers could extend up to one year via congressional resolution. The bill builds on Executive Order No. 110's UPLIFTED policy framework for energy conservation and anti-hoarding measures.
Legarda announced plans for the bill on March 28, 2026, amid discussions by other lawmakers about addressing the oil crisis. The filing comes as fuel companies announced significant price hikes for April 7, with diesel potentially reaching ₱170 per liter, leading to motorists queuing at gas stations in areas like Bukidnon. The legislation aims to reduce fuel and electricity costs, protect food supply, and provide direct relief to vulnerable sectors affected by the global oil crisis.
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