With fuel supply timelines tightening and uncertainty growing beyond April, the government is moving early to reinforce reserves. The Department of Energy secured 22.5 million liters of diesel to help keep supply stable as global pressures build.
This shipment forms part of a broader effort to prevent disruptions in transport, industry, and daily activity. At the same time, the government is working toward securing up to 2 million barrels of additional fuel under its emergency program.
The DOE initiated the importation through its Emergency Energy Security Program, in coordination with the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) and PNOC Exploration Corporation (PNOC EC). These steps focus on strengthening supply buffers while global oil markets remain volatile. Officials continue to monitor inflows and maintain coordination with both local and international partners.
“Patuloy ang pagtutok ng DOE upang madagdagan ang suplay ng langis sa bansa. Ang mabilis na pagdating ng diesel na ito ay bahagi ng mga hakbang para hindi maantala ang biyahe, hanapbuhay, at pang-araw-araw na buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin, on ensuring fuel availability during ongoing supply pressures.
Current data shows the country still holds around 45 days of fuel supply based on industry estimates. Gasoline may last over 53 days, while diesel remains close to 46 days. However, attention has shifted to what happens after April as supply visibility narrows.
Fuel companies disclosed that traders have not confirmed deliveries for May, with some citing elevated global prices. As a result, the government has started engaging directly with supplier countries such as Japan, South Korea, and China. These efforts aim to supplement private sector sourcing and secure additional supply channels.
Meanwhile, the DOE continues to build reserves through contracted imports and emergency funding support. A ₱20-billion fund backs procurement, inventory buildup, and supply augmentation measures.
