Philippine president declares energy emergency as impact of Iran war felt

Transport unions say the emergency declaration is a ‘superficial band-aid’ that does not address the root cause of the fuel crisis.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has declared a national energy emergency in response to the US-Israel war on Iran ⁠and what he called the “imminent danger” posed to the country’s energy supply.

The emergency declaration on Tuesday came as Philippine transport workers, commuters and consumer groups plan to hold ‌a two-day strike from Thursday to protest the increase in fuel prices and what they say is the Marcos administration’s failure to swiftly respond.

“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,” Marcos Jr said.

As part of the emergency response, a committee has been formed to ensure the orderly movement, supply, distribution and availability of fuel, food, medicine, agricultural products and ⁠other essential goods, he said.

The emergency declaration, which will remain in force for one year, authorises the government to procure fuel and petroleum products to ensure timely and sufficient supply and, if necessary, pay part of the contract amount in advance.