“The declaration of a state of national energy emergency will enable the government… to implement responsive and coordinated measures under existing laws to address the risks posed by disruptions in the global energy supply and the domestic economy,” stated Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr during a press briefing on March 25, 2026. This declaration comes as a direct response to the ongoing US-Israel war on Iran, which has significantly impacted global oil prices and supply chains.
As the Philippines grapples with a dwindling fuel supply, currently estimated at just 45 days, the government is taking decisive steps to bolster its reserves. President Marcos announced plans to procure 1 million barrels of oil to build a buffer stock, ensuring that the nation can withstand the pressures of the current geopolitical climate. The emergency declaration will remain in effect for one year, allowing the government to implement necessary measures to stabilize the energy sector.
The situation is particularly critical as the Philippines relies heavily on imported fuel to keep its power plants operational, with coal accounting for approximately 60% of the country’s electricity generation. The need for immediate action is underscored by the fact that about 116 million Filipinos depend on stable energy supplies for their daily lives and livelihoods.
In addition to securing oil supplies, the government is also addressing the immediate needs of transport workers and commuters affected by rising fuel costs. To alleviate some of the financial burdens, a subsidy of 5,000 pesos (approximately $83) is being provided to motorcycle taxi drivers and public transport workers. Furthermore, free bus rides are being offered to students and workers in select cities, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens during this challenging time.
However, not all voices are in agreement with the government’s approach. The transport organization Piston has called for more aggressive measures, urging the government to suspend the Excise Tax and Value-Added Tax on petroleum products to drastically lower prices overnight. “If the government genuinely intends to protect transport workers and commuters from this geopolitical crisis, it would immediately suspend the Excise Tax and Value-Added Tax on petroleum products to drastically lower prices overnight,” a representative from Piston remarked, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Sharon Garin, a key figure in the energy sector, emphasized the need for collaboration with coal-powered plants to increase generation capacity. “We talked to the generation companies, the coal-powered plants, to check how much they can increase their generation,” she noted, indicating that the government is actively seeking solutions to maintain electricity availability and affordability for all Filipinos.
As the situation evolves, the government is also seeking waivers from the United States to obtain oil from countries currently under US sanctions, further illustrating the lengths to which officials are willing to go to secure energy supplies. The emergency declaration allows for coordinated measures to combat hoarding and profiteering in the petroleum market, aiming to protect consumers from unfair pricing practices during this crisis.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term implications of this emergency declaration, but the immediate focus remains on stabilizing the energy supply and supporting the Filipino people through this challenging period. With the government taking steps to address both supply and affordability, the hope is that the nation will navigate through these turbulent times with resilience and solidarity.
