Facing the fuel crisis: Kalinga mobilizes energy crisis task force; Province-wide comprehensive response and mitigation plan crafted

Tabuk City, Kalinga – A comprehensive response to the increasing pressure of the fuel crisis in Kalinga is now being crafted by the Provincial Energy Crisis Impact Task Force (PECITF) through the initiative of Governor James S. Edduba.

Created through an executive order issued by Governor Edduba on March 31, the PECITF is composed of provincial offices and national line agencies, with the governor as chairperson and Provincial Administrator Teddy Gullay as vice chairperson.

On Tuesday, April 7, the task force and its technical working group began consolidating interventions to address the impacts of the crisis on electricity, transportation, construction projects, cost of living, employment, food and nutrition, health, agriculture, and other affected sectors.

During the meeting, initial discussions focused on financial and livelihood assistance to be implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other concerned offices.

The body also eyed the distribution of rice assistance through the provincial government’s allocation under the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) and the national government’s Benteng Bigas program.

The National Food Authority (NFA), through Branch Manager Elimar Regindin, expressed its intent to partner with the PLGU on this initiative, which will be formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

Beyond immediate aid, the task force is also looking to strengthen local production. Proposed measures include fuel assistance for farmers, subsidies for rice, corn, and high-value crops, as well as the distribution of seedlings and other farm inputs. Solar-powered irrigation pumps are also being considered for long-term resilience.

Market stability has likewise been placed under close watch. With the sharp rise in prices of essential commodities such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), the creation of a coordinating council was recommended to help protect consumers from overpricing.

On transportation, the distribution of fuel assistance to drivers is now being rolled out by concerned agencies. Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) Head Flordeliza Moldero also revealed that the PLGU will extend fuel subsidies to transport groups.

To ensure balanced support, the body also discussed the implementation of free rides for vulnerable commuters, which are set to begin on Monday, April 13.

Governor Edduba directed the task force to implement the program with fairness, ensuring that those most affected will benefit.

Further discussions are scheduled in the coming days for the consolidation and finalization of the unified response plans, which will then be submitted to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, headed by Vice Governor Dave Odiem, for deliberation and approval.