The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses concern over rising fuel costs and their impact on the enjoyment of economic and social rights, particularly among vulnerable and marginalized sectors. Amid global economic and geopolitical uncertainties, these increases have cascading effects on the Philippine economy, driving up the prices of transportation, food, and other essential goods and services. These pressures undermine the right to an adequate standard of living, including the rights to food, mobility, and basic services, as recognized under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

The burden falls disproportionately on low-income households, daily wage earners, transport workers, farmers, fisherfolk and those in the informal economy. The impact on vulnerable people, such as persons with disabilities, elderly, persons living with illness, and indigenous peoples can be calamitous. As prices rise, these groups face shrinking purchasing power, heightened risk of hunger, and reduced access to essential services. Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families are also affected, as global instability and conflict may lead to job insecurity, displacement, and higher living costs in host countries.

The State is advised to take concrete steps to protect these sectors through targeted social protection, wage support, subsidies, and accessible public services, consistent with its duty to progressively realize economic and social rights without discrimination. It must also ensure the protection of OFWs through timely assistance, repatriation when necessary, and reintegration support, especially for those affected by conflict and economic disruptions abroad.

The CHR acknowledges the government’s efforts to cushion rising prices, including cash transfers, fuel subsidies for sectors such as public utility drivers and farmers, and other assistance. We further recognize the government’s ongoing initiatives to repatriate affected Filipinos and provide necessary support amid global economic and geopolitical challenges. These measures must be timely, sufficient, and responsive, and must reach those most in need. Stronger social safety nets, with transparency and accountability in delivery, remain essential.

In line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the CHR calls on businesses to respect human rights during this period of economic strain. Enterprises must refrain from unjustified price increases, exploitative practices, or arbitrary layoffs that undermine workers’ rights and access to basic goods and services, and must avoid aggravating the situation of vulnerable populations.

Addressing the human rights impacts of rising fuel costs requires a collective approach grounded in human dignity and social justice. The CHR reiterates that economic responses to global crises must remain people-centered, ensuring that no one is left behind, especially in times of uncertainty and hardship. ###