As commuters brace for fare hikes in buses and jeepneys, United Filipino Consumers and Commuters (UFCC) President RJ Javellana is calling for decisive government action to protect the public from worsening economic pressures. 

In an interview with DWAR -Abante Radio, 1494 Khz, Javellana stressed that the Constitution provides a clear mandate for government intervention during national crises. He cited Article 12, Sections 17 and 18 of the 1987 Constitution, which allow the state to temporarily take over strategic industries and public utilities such as transportation, telecommunications, electricity, and water. 

“It’s high time ipatupad ang Article 12, Section 17 at 18… kahit pansamantala i-takeover ang mga facilities nito para sa pambansang kagalingan,” Javellana said. 

Javellana urged the convening of the National Security Council to reassess policies on liberalization, deregulation, and privatization, which he argued have left the economy vulnerable to external shocks. He also proposed: 

Suspension of the Rice Tariffication Law to safeguard food security. 

Moratorium on foreign debt payments for 5–10 years, to ease fiscal burdens amid global instability. 

“National Survival Tax” or wealth contribution from major business tycoons to help fund crisis response. 

He warned that temporary solutions such as fuel subsidies and fare adjustments are inflationary and insufficient. “Kapag kumalam ang sigmura ng tao, hindi puwedeng ayuda lang ang solusyon,” he added. 

Javellana linked the current economic strain to international conflicts, particularly tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have disrupted oil supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz. He cautioned that spillover effects could worsen inflation and strain the Philippines’ import-dependent economy. 

The UFCC leader emphasized the need for honest government assessment of food and fuel reserves, alongside mobilization of the Armed Forces, police, and civil society to prepare for potential shortages. He also appealed to industrialists to contribute to national survival, noting that ordinary Filipinos are already burdened by shrinking wages and rising costs of living. 

“Ang sahod ng manggagawa, ang real value niya lalo ngayon ay nag-shrink ng todo. Ang 1,000 pesos, hindi na mapupuno ang isang supot sa grocery,” Javellana lamented. 

Javellana’s message was clear: the government must act swiftly and decisively, not with piecemeal aid but with structural reforms and bold measures to shield consumers and commuters from the cascading effects of global crises.