Sen. Mar Roxas on Zero-VAT on oil

FAIRNESS ABOVE ALL. Senator Mar Roxas stressed that the people's plight in light of an "abnormal" situation of high oil prices is more important to consider than what Moody's and other international credit rating firms say. He said the bottom line of his proposal to suspend the 12% value-added tax on oil is fairness.

Speaking before members of the People's Unity Against Oil Price Hikes in Balay Kalinaw at the University of the Philippines, Roxas stressed that the crisis now has shifted to Juan dela Cruz and his weakening purchasing power, and the old medicine used to cure the previous problem of a government fiscal crisis is not anymore appropriate. Also shown in the picture are Emmie de Jesus of Gabriela, Dr. Giovanni Tapang of AGHAM and Bayan Muna Rep. Teddy Casiño.

ZERO VAT ON OIL NOW! Senator Mar Roxas, together with leaders of various groups forming the "People's Unity Against Oil Price Hikes," demand from the government to act responsively in easing the people's burden in light of an "abnormal" situation of high oil prices. Together, they called for the immediate suspension of the 12% value-added tax on oil products, which would provide immediate relief to jeepney and tricycle drivers, housewives, farmers and fishermen.

Together with him in a forum at Balay Kalinaw at the University of the Philippines are: Anakpawis Rep. Crispin Beltran (hidden), Wilson Baldonaza of Kilusang Mayo Uno, Sammy Malunes of Anakpawis (hidden), Renato Reyes of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, Rafael Mariano of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, Emmie de Jesus of Gabriela, Ferdie Gaite of COURAGE and Dr. Giovanni Tapang of AGHAM.