Sign-up drive vs TRAIN Law kicks off amid big-time oil price hike

News Release
May 22, 2018

On the day a big-time oil price hike took effect, various groups kicked off a signature campaign against the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law which has caused new taxes on several commodities. Groups belonging to the Stop TRAIN Network are calling on Congress to scrap the new tax burden on consumers. They are also holding the Dutetre government responsible for the added burden on the people.

The sign-up drive was held at the MRT North Avenue Station during rush hour.

Hardest hit by the regime of new taxes are petroleum products. The excise tax on petroleum products is on top of the almost weekly oil price increases and the 12% VAT.

Just today, diesel prices went up by P1.15 per liter while gasoline prices went up by P1.60 per liter. Excise tax on diesel for 2018 is at P2.50 while excise tax on gasoline is at P7.00.

The impact of the new taxes he’s been felt in the increase in the prices of basic commodities as well as electricity rates. Inflation has reached 4.5%, the highest in three years. It is still expected to go up before the year ends.

The anti-TRAIN groups want Congress to utilize the remaining session days this May to tackle urgent bills seeking the repeal or suspension of the tax measure. Session will resume in July during the SONA. ###