Philippine authorities have declared a state of emergency in the energy sector due to fuel shortages amid the conflict in the Middle East.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned of an “immediate danger of a critical decline in energy supply,” stating that urgent measures must now be taken to ensure the stability of energy supply, the continuity of economic activity, and the provision of basic services.
This declaration follows the country’s last state of emergency during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The Philippines has become one of the first nations to declare such an emergency due to the fuel crisis.
The nation imports nearly all of its oil from the Middle East and currently holds 45 days of oil reserves as of March 20.
Under the state of emergency, President Marcos Jr. will form a committee responsible for ensuring the availability of fuel, food, medicines, agricultural products, and other basic necessities. The president will also oversee energy supply management measures and provide support to consumers and affected sectors.
