Philippines Declares National Energy Emergency Amid Iran Conflict The Philippines has declared a state of national energy emergency, citing the "imminent danger" to the country's fuel supplies caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed an executive order to safeguard energy security amid severe disruptions to global supply chains. The US-Israel conflict with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route, have sent shockwaves through global energy markets, leading to soaring prices and shortages. The Philippines, which relies heavily on fuel imports, is particularly vulnerable to disruptions in production and shipments. In his executive order, Marcos emphasized that the declaration was made "in light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the resulting imminent danger posed upon the availability and stability of the country's energy supply." The order allows the government to implement coordinated measures to address economic disruptions. A committee has been formed to ensure the orderly movement, supply, distribution, and availability of fuel, food, medicines, and other essential goods. The emergency declaration will remain in effect for one year unless extended or lifted by the president. The move follows calls from several senators urging Marcos to recognize the "emergency-level" hardship faced by Philippine families due to rising oil prices. Recent fuel price surges have pushed the cost of petrol and diesel to more than double their pre-war levels in February. The Philippines imports approximately 98% of its crude oil from the Gulf, and the conflict has had widespread effects, impacting transportation, food prices, and daily life.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #philippines #ferdinand_marcos_jr #us_israel_conflict
