NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Marcos Reassures Public On Fuel Supply, Prepares Support Amid Global Oil Tensions
Photo credit: PCO
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday sought to calm public concerns over rising fuel prices, assuring Filipinos that the country has sufficient oil reserves to weather current instability in major Middle Eastern oil-producing regions.
At a press briefing in Malacañan Palace, President Marcos cited updated data from the Department of Energy showing that the Philippines currently holds stockpiles capable of covering 50 to 60 days of national demand. Several Cabinet members were present as he detailed the government’s preparedness amid global supply fears.
“Let me assure everyone that we have a sufficient supply of oil… So, we are okay for that period of time,” Marcos said.
Current Fuel Inventory Breakdown
According to the President, current national inventories include:
• Diesel: ~50.5 days
• Fuel oil: ~51.5 days
• Gasoline: ~51.5 days
• Kerosene: ~67.5 days
• Jet fuel: ~58 days
• LPG: ~29 days
He noted that international suppliers serving the Philippines also maintain unshipped stocks that could serve as backup sources if needed, depending on market conditions. Marcos added, however, that some exporting countries could impose restrictions to secure their own supply if tensions escalate.
Government Readies Subsidies and Commuter Support
President Marcos said the administration is preparing interventions to cushion the impact of potential price surges, particularly if global crude prices rise above US$80 per barrel, a benchmark closely monitored by the DOE.
“As soon as oil prices breach 80 dollars per barrel, mayroon na tayong gagawin, and we will use several of the funds… For example, we will use the Pantawid Pasada Program and the subsidy for farmers and fisherfolk,” Marcos said.
The Pantawid Pasada Program provides fuel assistance to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, while separate support packages are earmarked for farmers and fisherfolk to mitigate production cost spikes.
Officials are also exploring ways to ease transportation costs for commuters, including targeted subsidies on major bus routes and preventing sudden fare increases. Similar programs were implemented during past periods of high inflation, particularly during the pandemic, under the Department of Transportation.
Why This Matters
Global oil price fluctuations, especially from the Middle East, have direct ripple effects on the Philippines, influencing transport fares, food prices, and electricity rates. The DOE has warned that weekly pump price adjustments may remain volatile as geopolitical tensions continue.
President Marcos emphasized that the government’s priority is to maintain adequate supply, protect vulnerable sectors, and keep essential transportation affordable for workers who rely on daily commutes.
Officials said detailed guidelines on subsidy distribution and commuter assistance will be released in the coming days as the administration continues to monitor global crude markets.
At a press briefing in Malacañan Palace, President Marcos cited updated data from the Department of Energy showing that the Philippines currently holds stockpiles capable of covering 50 to 60 days of national demand. Several Cabinet members were present as he detailed the government’s preparedness amid global supply fears.
“Let me assure everyone that we have a sufficient supply of oil… So, we are okay for that period of time,” Marcos said.
Current Fuel Inventory Breakdown
According to the President, current national inventories include:
• Diesel: ~50.5 days
• Fuel oil: ~51.5 days
• Gasoline: ~51.5 days
• Kerosene: ~67.5 days
• Jet fuel: ~58 days
• LPG: ~29 days
He noted that international suppliers serving the Philippines also maintain unshipped stocks that could serve as backup sources if needed, depending on market conditions. Marcos added, however, that some exporting countries could impose restrictions to secure their own supply if tensions escalate.
Government Readies Subsidies and Commuter Support
President Marcos said the administration is preparing interventions to cushion the impact of potential price surges, particularly if global crude prices rise above US$80 per barrel, a benchmark closely monitored by the DOE.
“As soon as oil prices breach 80 dollars per barrel, mayroon na tayong gagawin, and we will use several of the funds… For example, we will use the Pantawid Pasada Program and the subsidy for farmers and fisherfolk,” Marcos said.
The Pantawid Pasada Program provides fuel assistance to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, while separate support packages are earmarked for farmers and fisherfolk to mitigate production cost spikes.
Officials are also exploring ways to ease transportation costs for commuters, including targeted subsidies on major bus routes and preventing sudden fare increases. Similar programs were implemented during past periods of high inflation, particularly during the pandemic, under the Department of Transportation.
Why This Matters
Global oil price fluctuations, especially from the Middle East, have direct ripple effects on the Philippines, influencing transport fares, food prices, and electricity rates. The DOE has warned that weekly pump price adjustments may remain volatile as geopolitical tensions continue.
President Marcos emphasized that the government’s priority is to maintain adequate supply, protect vulnerable sectors, and keep essential transportation affordable for workers who rely on daily commutes.
Officials said detailed guidelines on subsidy distribution and commuter assistance will be released in the coming days as the administration continues to monitor global crude markets.
Mar 3, 2026
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
