With the effects of the prolonged Middle East crisis now creeping into food prices, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced measures to keep cooking gas affordable and reduce the operational costs of farmers and fisherfolks. He made the announcement in a hastily called press conference in Malacañang on Monday amid rumors of his alleged poor health as well as criticisms on the government’s alleged slow response on the impact of the Middle East crisis. It was the first time Marcos exercised his power under Republic Act 12316, which takes effect on April 14.

Medenilla, S. P. (2026, April 14). Marcos halts excise tax on LPG, cuts toll in fish ports. BusinessMirror, p. A2.