* Cites rising fuel prices By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Vice Pres. Sara Duterte has appealed to the public to reconsider organizing motorcades and vehicle caravans as a form of protest, citing the recent rise in fuel prices and growing concerns over air and noise pollution.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 3, Vice President Duterte said such activities contribute to higher fuel consumption, worsen air quality, and increase traffic congestion, resulting in public inconvenience.
“Due to the recent rise in fuel prices and the serious concerns about air and noise pollution, I am appealing to people to reconsider organizing motorcades and vehicle caravans or parades as a form of protest,” Vice President Duterte said.
While acknowledging the public’s right to protest or show support for former President Rodrigo Duterte, the Vice President said people should also consider the effects of such activities on communities and the environment.
She encouraged supporters and critics alike to explore alternative forms of assembly that are less disruptive and more sustainable, noting that holding the government accountable for its alleged shortcomings is a long-term process.
The Vice President also pointed to other pressing issues facing the country, including job losses among overseas Filipino workers returning home and the continued rise in food and essential commodity prices.
She called on all local government units to permanently ban motorcades and caravans — whether for celebrations, festivals, or political activities. “Let’s do our part to keep our roads and our country safer, cleaner, and more efficient for everyone.”
Vice President Duterte’s appeal comes amid heightened global tensions that have contributed to volatility in oil markets, triggering fluctuations in international crude prices and raising concerns over possible fuel cost increases.
It started on Feb. 28, when United States and Israeli forces carried out coordinated strikes on Iranian military facilities and key leadership sites, including locations in Tehran. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attacks.
Retaliatory operations reportedly targeted US military installations and other strategic sites across the region, further intensifying instability and prompting concern from the international community.
