KORONADAL CITY, SOUTH COTABATO – Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. urged residents of South Cotabato to stay calm as oil prices continue to rise, reassuring them that the provincial government is ready to act quickly if the situation worsens.
During the “Governor Meets the Press” forum, Tamayo emphasized that the provincial government is carefully exploring all possible measures to lessen the impact of the oil price increase on the province.
“We are considering all options. Every day, we adjust our plans to prevent the impact on our province from being too severe,” Tamayo said.
The governor clarified that the provincial government’s main concern is not just rising fuel costs but also ensuring sufficient local supply.
“If our fuel supply here runs out, even if the price hits ₱200 per liter, we won’t be able to buy anything because there won’t be any supply. That’s where our focus is, and that’s what the government is studying,” he explained.
When asked about the possible effects of the oil price hike on farmers and fisherfolk, Tamayo assured that both the local and national governments are already taking steps to cushion the impact and protect their livelihoods.
“The national government is already working on ways for us to adjust and make sure fuel supplies can be delivered here, so there’s no need to worry excessively,” the governor added.
Tamayo reiterated that the provincial government will continue to monitor the situation closely and take the necessary actions to protect the welfare of every South Cotabatenos.
