Iza Aldana
May 20, 2026
Quimbo proposal seeks emergency aid, fuel subsidies, and stronger government response to protect vulnerable communities from rising energy costs
Marikina 2nd District Representative Miro Quimbo is pushing for the passage of the proposed “KALINGA Act,” a measure designed to strengthen the government’s response to soaring oil prices, energy supply disruptions, and the growing economic burden faced by ordinary Filipinos.
The proposed legislation seeks to establish the “Komprehensibong Alalay sa Livelihood, Inflation, Negosyo at Goods Assistance” or KALINGA Program, a national emergency response framework intended to cushion communities from the impact of fuel-driven inflation and global energy shocks.
Under the bill, the government would be empowered to provide emergency cash assistance, fuel subsidies, electricity bill relief, food aid, and livelihood support to sectors heavily affected by rising fuel and commodity prices. These include low-income families, transport workers, farmers, fisherfolk, delivery riders, OFWs, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Quimbo said the proposal aims to ensure that the country has a ready mechanism to protect vulnerable sectors during periods of economic instability brought about by international oil market volatility and supply shortages.
The bill also seeks to maintain the uninterrupted delivery of essential goods and services by strengthening fuel supply security, logistics systems, and government coordination during emergencies.
Once a state of national energy emergency is declared by the President, the proposed measure would allow the government to exercise temporary emergency powers to speed up procurement, aid distribution, and emergency interventions intended to stabilize prices and protect consumers.
Several government agencies, including the Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev), and Department of Budget and Management (DBM), have already submitted recommendations to refine the proposed measure and ensure efficient implementation without duplication of existing programs.
Supporters of the bill argue that the measure is timely as Filipino households continue to face mounting pressure from rising fuel prices, transportation costs, and food expenses, stressing the need for a stronger and more coordinated national response focused on protecting communities and sustaining livelihoods.