Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a year-long state of national energy emergency on March 24, 2026, citing risks to fuel supplies from ongoing Middle East conflicts. The move authorizes immediate procurement of petroleum products and establishes emergency measures to stabilize essential goods distribution across the archipelago nation.
A newly formed crisis committee will oversee fuel allocation and price stabilization efforts, with authority to bypass standard procurement processes. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin confirmed current fuel reserves stand at 45 days’ consumption levels, while revealing plans to secure 1 million barrels of additional oil through regional and international suppliers.
The executive order comes as global oil prices hit 2026 highs following intensified Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions. President Marcos emphasized the need for “responsive measures to protect both energy security and economic stability,” directing financial authorities to monitor impacts on the peso and overseas remittances.
Transport workers and consumer groups have announced a two-day strike starting March 26 to protest rising fuel costs, testing the administration’s ability to balance economic pressures with public demands. Economic planners warn the crisis could push inflation to decade-high levels if global energy markets remain volatile through mid-2026.
