NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Castro: 700,000 Barrels Of Russian Oil Arrive In PH
Screengrab from RTVM
MANILA — A shipment of crude oil linked to Russia has reached the Philippines, with PCO Usec. Claire Castro confirming the development on Thursday.
When asked by reporters, Castro gave a brief but clear response: “This is confirmed,” referring to reports about the vessel’s arrival.
Initial reports say the shipment could be carrying more than 700,000 barrels of crude oil. However, key details—like the exact volume and the terms of the deal—have yet to be officially confirmed by energy authorities.
The reported arrival comes at a time when the Philippines, like many other countries, is dealing with unstable fuel prices and ongoing supply challenges. Since the country relies heavily on imported oil, any movement in the global market can quickly affect local prices.
Castro said the government has been actively working to manage the situation, pointing out that the Philippines is not depending on just one source for its fuel needs.
“We saw what the government has done, other countries are also struggling with the situation, but now you have seen how the government acted, how quick was its response, and how much the government has done for its people,” she said.
She added that different agencies are coordinating closely to secure more supply options.
“And now, as we have said, this is a whole-of-government approach, each agency have been helping each other. As a matter of fact, Secretary Sharon Garin said that they and the Department of Foreign Affairs have been helping each other to find alternative countries for the supply, like Canada, United States, and countries in South America, including Russia,” Castro added.
Energy officials have long emphasized the importance of diversifying suppliers to avoid sudden price spikes and supply disruptions—especially amid global tensions following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
While the reported Russian-linked shipment could help boost supply in the short term, the government says it is still focused on long-term plans to strengthen the country’s energy security.
When asked by reporters, Castro gave a brief but clear response: “This is confirmed,” referring to reports about the vessel’s arrival.
Initial reports say the shipment could be carrying more than 700,000 barrels of crude oil. However, key details—like the exact volume and the terms of the deal—have yet to be officially confirmed by energy authorities.
The reported arrival comes at a time when the Philippines, like many other countries, is dealing with unstable fuel prices and ongoing supply challenges. Since the country relies heavily on imported oil, any movement in the global market can quickly affect local prices.
Castro said the government has been actively working to manage the situation, pointing out that the Philippines is not depending on just one source for its fuel needs.
“We saw what the government has done, other countries are also struggling with the situation, but now you have seen how the government acted, how quick was its response, and how much the government has done for its people,” she said.
She added that different agencies are coordinating closely to secure more supply options.
“And now, as we have said, this is a whole-of-government approach, each agency have been helping each other. As a matter of fact, Secretary Sharon Garin said that they and the Department of Foreign Affairs have been helping each other to find alternative countries for the supply, like Canada, United States, and countries in South America, including Russia,” Castro added.
Energy officials have long emphasized the importance of diversifying suppliers to avoid sudden price spikes and supply disruptions—especially amid global tensions following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
While the reported Russian-linked shipment could help boost supply in the short term, the government says it is still focused on long-term plans to strengthen the country’s energy security.
Mar 26, 2026
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