MANILA, Philippines — Agimat party-list Rep. Bryan Revilla is calling on the Philippine government to prepare for a nationwide price freeze on basic goods if the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran continues to escalate.
The lawmaker warned that the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East have already triggered a surge in global petroleum prices. He emphasized that without intervention, the rising cost of fuel will inevitably lead to higher prices for food, transportation, and other essential commodities.
- Agencies Involved: Revilla urged the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) to coordinate closely to prevent an inflationary spike.
- Warning to Profiteers: The lawmaker echoed Malacañang’s warning against “price gouging” and abusive pricing. He stated that the government must remain vigilant and strictly enforce laws against price manipulation during this period of global uncertainty.
The call comes as the conflict hits home for many Filipinos. Revilla expressed condolences to the family of Mary Ann Velasquez De Vera, a Filipina caregiver from Pangasinan who was killed in Israel in late February while protecting her employer during a bombing.
- Repatriation Efforts: Revilla also pushed for the safety and welfare of over one million OFWs currently at risk in the region, urging agencies to be ready with medical and financial support, as well as repatriation plans.
Tensions peaked in late February 2026 after major strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iran, followed by retaliatory drone and missile attacks from Tehran. Locally, the LTFRB is already considering fare hikes as oil prices continue to climb.