Fuel price hikes seen to hurt MSMEs mostMANILA, Philippines — Rising fuel prices could significantly affect micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which make up the majority of businesses in the Philippines, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) said. PCCI President Perry Ferrer warned that higher energy costs could strain the viability of small businesses, which often operate with thin margins. Ferrer said small businesses are particularly sensitive to rising operating costs such as fuel, transportation and logistics. He added that policies aimed at lowering fuel prices would benefit businesses across the economy, especially MSMEs. They are 99.6% of the business community in the Philippines," Ferrer said.

Source: Philippine Star March 12, 2026 07:13 UTC