Transport groups seek removal of fuel VATA woman places a placard on a jeepney during the transport strike along Aurora Boulevard in Quezon City yesterday. MANILA, Philippines — Transport groups called yesterday for the removal of the 12-percent value-added tax (VAT) and excise taxes on petroleum products, as they staged a two-day strike in various parts of the country. Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena called on the government to expedite the removal of the excise tax and VAT on petroleum products. They urged other drivers to join the strike, warning that rising oil prices continue to erode their industry and income. Meanwhile, lower courts in Metro Manila dismissed their work early as the first day of a two-day transport strike started yesterday.

Source: Philippine Star March 26, 2026 16:39 UTC