Cusi rejects economic emergency declaration over high oil prices

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi rejected lawmakers' call to declare a state of economic emergency due to high oil prices.

Cusi stated that declaring an emergency would not provide clear solutions and emphasized that the government is already taking all necessary actions.

Albay Representative Joey Salceda suggested that a state of economic emergency could expedite aid distribution, but Cusi disagreed, saying the issue will likely resolve soon.

The Department of Energy urged Congress to amend the Oil Deregulation Law before its adjournment on February 4 and before resuming in May.