Philippines Declares Energy Emergency Over Middle East Conflict

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national energy emergency on Tuesday, citing the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as an imminent threat to the country's fuel supplies and economic stability. The declaration, outlined in Executive Order No. 110, aims to safeguard energy security amid global disruptions caused by hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

The executive order, effective for one year unless extended or lifted earlier, authorizes the government to procure fuel and petroleum products swiftly, including advance payments if needed, to maintain sufficient stocks. It also establishes the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport, or UPLIFT Committee, chaired by Marcos and comprising key cabinet secretaries from departments including energy, transportation, social welfare, agriculture, finance, and budget. The committee's mandate includes monitoring and ensuring the orderly supply and distribution of fuel, food, medicines, agricultural products, and other essentials, while promoting demand-side strategies to reduce petroleum consumption across sectors.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin stated during a...