THE Philippines has declared a national energy emergency in response to mounting risks to fuel security arising from the escalating conflict in West Asia, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr warning of an impending threat to the country’s energy supply.
In an executive order issued on Tuesday, Marcos said the crisis had triggered instability in global energy markets, severe supply chain disruptions and sharp fluctuations in international oil prices, all of which pose a direct risk to the nation’s energy resilience.
"The declaration of a national energy emergency will enable the government to implement responsive coordination measures under existing laws to address risks arising from disruptions to global energy supply and the domestic economy," Reuters quoted Marcos saying.
The declaration, which will remain in force for one year, empowers the government to secure fuel and petroleum products to ensure adequate and timely supply, including making advance payments where necessary.
Authorities have also established a dedicated committee to oversee the movement, supply, distribution and availability of essential goods, including fuel, food, medicines and agricultural products, in an effort to mitigate wider economic disruption.
Earlier, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the country currently holds around 45 days’ worth of fuel based on existing consumption levels.
The government is now seeking to procure up to one million barrels of oil from suppliers within and beyond Southeast Asia to build a strategic buffer against further shocks.
The move underscores growing concern across the region over the ripple effects of the West Asia conflict, which continues to unsettle global markets and threaten energy supply chains. - March 25, 2026
