Manila, March 11 -- The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading a measure that would authorize President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to temporarily suspend or reduce the excise tax on fuel when extraordinary conditions trigger sharp price shocks that hit transport, food, and household expenses.

House Majority Leader, Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander "Sandro" Marcos, one of the authors of the measure, along with Speaker Faustino "Bojie" Dy III, said the bill is built for moments when global disruptions push fuel prices upward fast, and Filipino families need the government to respond with speed and precision.

"This bill gives the President a measured tool to cushion that shock, with clear triggers, clear limits,...