Philippines declares national energy emergency amid fuel supply crisis

Key facts

• Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr declared a national energy emergency on 25 Mar 2026 citing the US-Israel war on Iran and imminent danger to the country’s energy supply.
• The emergency declaration empowers the government to procure fuel and petroleum products and, if necessary, pay part of contract amounts in advance for one year.
• A committee has been formed to ensure orderly movement, supply, distribution and availability of fuel, food, medicine, agricultural products and other essential goods.
• Secretary of Energy Sharon Garin stated the country has about 45 days of fuel supply left based on current consumption levels.
• The government is working to procure 1 million barrels of oil from countries within and outside Southeast Asia to build buffer stock.
• Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said Manila is seeking US exemptions to purchase oil from countries under US sanctions, with all options including Iranian and Venezuelan oil under discussion.
• Transport unions and senators criticised the government for lacking coordinated action; Piston federation called the emergency declaration a superficial band-aid.
• The government is providing free bus rides for students and workers in some cities and a 5,000 peso ($83) subsidy to motorcycle taxi drivers and other public transport workers nationwide.