FARMERS, fisherfolk, tricycle drivers, and other affected individuals from Batangas have entered their third day of protest at Liwasang Bonifacio, Manila, demanding immediate government action to suspend the Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel and lower overall fuel prices.
The group asserts that their livelihoods have become increasingly unviable due to what they perceive as an inadequate government response to the persistent oil crisis. They have pledged to persist in their demonstration until the government meets their demands for a VAT reduction and a more substantial resolution to the oil crisis.
Representative Leandro Leviste, a strong supporter of their demonstration, joins the protesters in their cause.
Leviste highlighted the growing number of participants from Batangas arriving daily, underscoring the widespread impact of the current economic situation on various sectors. He conveyed the sentiment that the government “recognizes that more can and should be done.” The congressman believes that increased public outcry is essential to spur more decisive action from the authorities, including the crucial step of lowering the VAT on fuel.
Leviste further emphasized the likelihood of protests continuing until authorities implement tangible measures to address the ongoing oil crisis.
He stated, “I believe that with more public clamor, more decisive action will be taken, including lowering the VAT, and until then, these activities will not stop.”
metrosundaily
