“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 his announcement of the national energy emergency on March 25, 2026. This declaration comes in the wake of escalating tensions due to the US-Israel war on Iran, which has sent shockwaves through global energy markets and prompted the Philippine government to take immediate action.
As the Philippines grapples with a precarious energy situation, the government has declared that the emergency will remain in effect for one year. This measure allows the administration to procure 1 million barrels of oil to bolster its buffer stock, a critical step given that the country has only about 45 days of fuel supply remaining as of March 20, 2026. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, as the Philippines relies heavily on imported fuel to keep its power plants operational, with coal accounting for approximately 60% of its electricity generation.
The emergency declaration also empowers the government to combat hoarding and profiteering of petroleum products, which could exacerbate the crisis. In a bid to alleviate the burden on transport workers and commuters, the government is providing a 5,000 peso ($83) subsidy to motorcycle taxi drivers and public transport workers. Additionally, free bus rides are being offered to students and workers in select cities, reflecting the administration’s commitment to support those most affected by rising fuel prices.
Sharon Garin, a representative involved in energy discussions, remarked, “We talked to the generation companies, the coal-powered plants, to check how much they can increase their generation.” This highlights the government’s proactive approach in engaging with energy producers to ensure that electricity supply remains stable amid the ongoing crisis. The reliance on coal, while criticized for its environmental impact, is seen as a necessary measure to keep electricity costs manageable for consumers during this tumultuous period.
In light of the geopolitical crisis, the Philippine government is also seeking waivers from the United States to obtain oil from countries under US sanctions. This controversial move underscores the lengths to which the administration is willing to go to secure energy supplies for its population of 116 million, including the 2.4 million Filipinos living and working in the Middle East who are directly impacted by the rising costs of fuel.
While the government has taken significant steps to address the immediate challenges posed by the energy emergency, critics argue that more could be done. A representative from the transport sector, speaking on behalf of the organization Piston, stated, “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.” This sentiment reflects a growing frustration among citizens who feel the pinch of rising fuel costs.
The declaration of a national energy emergency is a critical juncture for the Philippines, as it navigates the complexities of global energy supply disruptions while striving to maintain domestic stability. The government’s coordinated measures aim to mitigate the risks associated with this crisis, but the effectiveness of these actions remains to be seen. As the situation evolves, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the government’s response and its impact on the broader economy.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term implications of this emergency declaration, but it is clear that the Philippine government is facing a formidable challenge in securing energy supplies and ensuring the welfare of its citizens during these uncertain times.
