Villafuerte pushes for Alert Level 1 nationwide

Camarines Sur Rep. Luis Raymund Villafuerte proposed placing the entire Philippines under Alert Level 1 to bolster the domestic economy and mitigate the economic fallout from the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Villafuerte cited the potential for global oil prices to reach $200 a barrel due to the Russia-Ukraine tension, which could hinder the country's return to pre-pandemic economic growth.

He argued that a full economic reopening under Alert Level 1 would stimulate economic activity, help businesses recover, and create jobs, especially with declining COVID-19 infections and a successful vaccine rollout.

The congressman emphasized that risk management, achieved through relaxed health protocols, is crucial for economic resilience.

Alert Level 1 allows businesses, establishments, and public transportation to operate at full capacity.

Villafuerte also stated that increased economic activity would lead to higher government revenues, enabling greater spending on COVID-19 response and recovery programs, particularly in infrastructure and agriculture.