Metro Manila, Philippines – A newly formed Senate ad hoc committee is developing a comprehensive contingency framework for the Middle East crisis, including measures for a possible worst-case scenario in which the conflict lasts up to six months.
The projection was mentioned in a press release from the office of Senator Win Gatchalian on Monday, March 23. The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier mentioned a projection of up to eight weeks for the conflict which began on Feb. 28.
Gatchalian is chairman of the Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) committee which the Senate formed on its last session day to ensure a coordinated response to the Middle East crisis.
“[T]he panel is already undertaking scenario-building, including a worst-case projection where the conflict extends for up to six months and oil prices surge to $200 per barrel,” a news release from Gatchalian’s office read.
“In such a scenario or at any point of the conflict, the country should be ready to implement an appropriate and targeted contingency plan,” it added.
The committee is holding its first hearing on Tuesday, March 24. Gatchalian said the panel targets to come up with a “comprehensive contingency framework” within one to two weeks.
”Wala kasi tayong control sa nangyayari sa labas ng bansa, pero ang mahalaga ay handa tayo,” Gatchalian said.
State of national emergency
Meanwhile, Senator Bam Aquino is pushing for the declaration of a state of national emergency now to address the impact of the Middle East crisis.
“Unang-una, pag may state of national emergency, pwede silang maglagay ng price ceiling sa mga essential goods,” Aquino said in a separate statement on Monday.
However, Palace press officer Claire Castro said last week that there was no need for such a declaration at this time, noting that the government and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remain in control of the situation.
Aquino pointed out the need to roll out subsidies for transport workers and small businesses, and to ensure proper implementation of the measure granting the president authority to suspend or reduce fuel excise taxes.
Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros reiterated her call for a ₱52.8-billion subsidy package, including ₱12 billion in aid for the transport sector.
A number of senators, including Gatchalian, JV Ejercito, and Erwin Tulfo, also expressed support for the directive of Marcos to form a crisis committee to ensure a steady supply of petroleum products and food.
