MANILA – Senate leaders welcomed President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s declaration of a state of national energy emergency, saying it was necessary to address the rising fuel prices and related economic pressures caused by the Middle East crisis.

Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III said a special legislative session could be called even during the break to respond to the crisis, and he expects all senators to attend if summoned.

While some lawmakers, including Senator JV Ejercito, noted that government agencies have been reactive and slow to act on rising oil prices, others highlighted the importance of immediate support for affected Filipino families.

Senator Loren Legarda described the declaration as an “overdue recognition” of the crisis, but stressed that it must be coupled with swift, coordinated, and compassionate action to deliver immediate relief to households and guide the country through the situation. Legarda is also considering filing a new Bayanihan law to provide the government with tools to respond effectively.

Senator Risa Hontiveros echoed the need for timely aid, urging Malacañang to support the P52.8-billion supplemental budget for transport subsidies, agricultural assistance, and the repatriation of overseas Filipino workers.

Senator Imee Marcos emphasized the importance of a long-term energy strategy, saying piecemeal relief is only a “band-aid” and urging the government to engage regional and global partners while mobilizing state institutions like the Philippine National Oil Company.

Meanwhile, Senator Bam Aquino called for a broader state of national emergency, which he said would allow the government to impose price controls on essential goods and clarify whether local government units can utilize quick response funds for constituents.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the Senate finance committee, highlighted the need for efficient and transparent implementation of measures under the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT), aimed at supporting households, OFWs, and sectors most affected by the global energy shock.

“Handa tayong makipagtulungan sa buong UPLIFT Committee upang matiyak ang sapat na suplay ng enerhiya, tuloy-tuloy na takbo ng ekonomiya, at maayos na kalagayan ng ating mga OFWs at mga sektor na higit na apektado,” Gatchalian said.

The Senate and the House are currently on a session break and are set to resume on May 4, but lawmakers indicated they are ready to respond if a special session is called to address the energy crisis.