DID Press: Philippines has declared a national energy emergency, citing an imminent risk to fuel supply amid escalating conflicts in the Middle East.
The country’s president stated that the measure is aimed at safeguarding energy security and addressing severe disruptions in global supply chains.
Officials noted that the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, along with the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global energy transit route—has caused sharp price increases and fuel shortages in international markets. The Philippines, heavily reliant on fuel imports, is among the countries most exposed to this crisis.
In the executive order, the president emphasized that the emergency grants the government authority to implement coordinated measures to manage economic consequences and ensure the availability of essential goods. A special committee has been formed to monitor the distribution of fuel, food, medicine, and other necessities. The emergency status will remain in effect for one year.
Earlier, some senators had also called for the declaration, citing severe economic pressure on households due to rising fuel costs. Energy officials warned that the country’s fuel reserves are sufficient for only about 45 days.
To address the situation, the Philippine government announced plans to temporarily increase the use of coal-fired power plants, as the cost of liquefied natural gas (LNG) has risen significantly.