The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod City has officially expressed its strong support for the proposed “Bayanihan for Economic Resilience and National Stability Act of 2026,” a legislative measure to be filed by Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo ‘Albee’ Benitez, in response to the ongoing global oil crisis and the declaration of a National State of Energy Emergency.
The resolution, principally authored by City Councilor Caesar Distrito, underscores the urgent need for decisive and coordinated government action to address the rising fuel costs and their cascading effects on transportation, food prices, and the overall cost of living, a press release said.
“The current oil crisis is not just a global issue, it is a local burden felt daily by Bacolodnons. This measure provides the national government with the necessary tools to respond swiftly, stabilize our economy, and protect the most vulnerable sectors of society.” Distrito said.
The proposed Bayanihan measure seeks to empower the executive branch with emergency authority, fiscal flexibility, and strategic mechanisms to cushion the impact of the crisis, sustain economic activity, and ensure the continuous delivery of essential services.
The Sangguniang Panlungsod emphasized that Bacolod, as a growing urban center, is particularly vulnerable to fuel price volatility, affecting public transportation, supply chains, small businesses, and household expenses.
In passing the resolution, the City Council also urged both chambers of Congress to prioritize the immediate passage of the measure, citing the need for timely interventions to prevent further economic strain.
“The lessons of the pandemic have shown us that speed, coordination, and flexibility in governance are critical in times of crisis. We must act with the same urgency to safeguard our economy and our people.” Distrito added.
The city government of Bacolod, likewise expressed its readiness to align local programs with national initiatives that may be implemented under the proposed law, particularly in delivering targeted assistance to affected sectors.*
