Philippines declares National Energy Emergency amid West Asia war fears

The Philippines on Tuesday became the first country to declare a “national energy emergency” as the ongoing conflict in West Asia threatens fuel supply chains and energy stability.

Announcing the decision, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the emergency measure is aimed at protecting the country’s energy security and shielding consumers from rising electricity prices.

“A state of national energy emergency is hereby declared 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,” Marcos said in an executive order, reported by News18.
The order authorises immediate steps to ramp up electricity generation, especially from coal-fired power plants, which currently produce nearly 60% of the country’s power.

Earlier, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the Philippines would temporarily depend more on coal as liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices surge due to the conflict. She noted that the government will maximise domestic coal output and may step up imports from Indonesia if required.

“This is a temporary measure, which could begin as early as April 1,” Garin said as per News18 reporters. “If we are successful in implementing this, at least we can decrease the electricity rate hikes because of the conflict in the Middle East.”

Indonesia has assured Manila that coal exports will remain unrestricted, ensuring a steady supply if additional imports are needed.