Philippines declares national energy emergency in wake of Iran conflict

Key Points:

• The Philippines has declared a state of national energy emergency, the first country to do so, in response to the war involving Iran, citing threats to the stability and availability of its energy supply.
• President Ferdinand Marcos Jr signed an executive order granting the government authority to manage fuel distribution, directly purchase petroleum products, and ensure the stability of essential goods for one year.
• The conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz have caused global energy market disruptions, with diesel and petrol prices in the Philippines more than doubling since late February, severely impacting families and businesses.
• Labour groups like Kilusang Mayo Uno criticized the emergency declaration, accusing the government of prior downplaying the crisis and expressing concern over clauses that could limit workers' rights to strike amid rising fuel costs.
• Transport workers and ride-hailing services are planning a two-day strike demanding fuel tax cuts, price rollbacks, state control measures, fare increases, and higher wages in response to ongoing economic pressures.