Malacañang on Friday dismissed circulating claims that the Philippines would be placed under an “energy lockdown” starting April 20, calling the reports false and misleading.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro refuted the viral social media post that urged the public to stock up on emergency supplies.
“Fake news ito,” Castro told reporters in a text message, responding to the widely shared claim.
Government officials reiterated that no such lockdown is being planned, emphasizing that authorities are actively working to secure alternative fuel sources amid rising global oil prices fueled by tensions in the Middle East.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a one-year state of national energy emergency to address potential disruptions in fuel supply and stabilize the country’s energy sector. As part of mitigation efforts, the administration is set to expand its nationwide fuel subsidy program for the transport sector beginning April 6.
Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported that Iran has assured Philippine officials of the continued safe passage of key shipments and personnel through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
According to the DFA, the assurance was conveyed during a phone call between Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi.
The department said the commitment ensures the “safe, unhindered, and expeditious” movement of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy shipments, and Filipino seafarers—an important factor in maintaining the country’s energy security and safeguarding overseas workers.