MANILA – The Philippine government has declared a nationwide energy emergency, citing severe threats to the country’s power and fuel stability triggered by ongoing overseas conflict. The order, set to remain in effect for one year, grants authorities expanded powers to stabilize supplies and curb market exploitation.
Officials confirmed the emergency measures are a direct response to mounting global energy market disruptions, which risk causing critical shortages domestically. The state of emergency enables agencies to intervene against hoarding and price manipulation, and to expedite fuel procurement.
In parallel, energy authorities announced plans to temporarily increase dependence on coal-generated electricity to mitigate rising power costs. With liquefied natural gas prices surging, coal-fired plants are expected to ramp up output, drawing on both domestic reserves and assured imports from key suppliers.
The government reported current fuel reserves at approximately 45 days of supply, with efforts underway to secure additional volumes. Diplomatic channels are also being utilized to explore all available sourcing options to maintain adequate stockpiles.
As part of the emergency response, financial support is being rolled out for public transport operators, including subsidies for motorcycle taxi drivers. Toll fees and aviation charges may also be reduced or suspended to ease economic pressure on citizens.
With a significant overseas workforce in affected regions, authorities have also placed migrant agencies on alert for potential evacuation operations.
The Philippines, which generates roughly 60% of its electricity from coal, remains heavily reliant on imported fuel. The emergency declaration aims to coordinate a whole-of-government approach to securing energy supply while controlling costs for consumers.
Officials described the shift toward coal as a provisional strategy, emphasizing that efforts continue to develop domestic gas resources for long-term energy security.
