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Philippines becomes first nation to declare energy emergency
The Philippines has enacted a national energy emergency, citing threats to fuel supplies due to the Middle East conflict, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr announced on Tuesday.
Executive order aims to secure energy stability
Marcos signed an executive order to address what he described as an "imminent danger" to the country's energy availability and stability. The move grants the government legal authority to implement measures ensuring fuel supply and economic protection.
Under the order, a committee will oversee the distribution of fuel, food, medicines, and other essential goods. The government can now directly purchase petroleum products to bolster reserves.
Middle East conflict disrupts global energy markets
The US-Israel war with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz-a critical shipping route-have triggered global fuel shortages and price surges. The Philippines, which imports 98% of its oil from the Gulf, has seen diesel and petrol prices more than double since hostilities began on February 28.
Government responds to fuel crisis
The emergency declaration follows appeals from senators to address the "emergency-level" hardship faced by Filipino families due to soaring fuel costs. Prices spiked again on Tuesday, reaching over double their pre-war levels.
Since the conflict escalated, the government has introduced fuel subsidies for transport drivers, reduced ferry services, and adopted a four-day workweek for civil servants to conserve energy.
Energy reserves and future measures
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin revealed the country has approximately 45 days of fuel supply remaining. To mitigate the crisis, the Philippines will temporarily increase reliance on coal-fired power plants amid rising liquefied natural gas (LNG) costs.
"We are taking all necessary steps to ensure energy security during this critical period," Garin told reporters.
Asia's vulnerability to Strait of Hormuz blockade
The region is particularly exposed to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 90% of last year's oil and gas shipments to Asia passed. The emergency declaration will remain in effect for one year unless modified by the president.
