Senator Win Gatchalian assured the public that the ongoing oil crisis will not result in electricity shortages, emphasizing that the Philippines does not rely solely on oil for power generation.
As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Energy, Gatchalian explained that the country maintains a diversified energy mix—comprising around 50% coal, 30% renewable energy, and 20% natural gas—ensuring stability in electricity supply despite fluctuations in global oil markets.
“‘Yung gas natin, portion of that, nanggagaling sa Middle East. Pero puwede naman palitan ‘yan ng coal or palitan din ng gas galing ng Australia,” he said during a press briefing on Monday, April 6.
While supply remains secure, Gatchalian warned that consumers may still feel the effects of rising global oil prices through increased electricity rates. He estimated that power costs could rise by ₱2 to ₱4 per kilowatt-hour in the coming months.
The senator also called on regulators to exercise caution in implementing adjustments, urging them to avoid sudden spikes in electricity rates on top of the impact from higher oil prices.
He added that the Energy Regulatory Commission is already taking steps to help cushion the financial burden on Filipino households.