Domestic fuel prices are set to rise sharply starting Tuesday, with hikes reaching up to ₱23.90 per liter, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin announced Monday.
Five oil companies will implement staggered adjustments, raising gasoline prices by ₱12.90 to ₱16.60 per liter, diesel by ₱20.40 to ₱23.90, and kerosene by ₱6.90 to ₱8.90. With these increases, gasoline could climb to ₱91.60 per liter, diesel to ₱114.90, and kerosene to ₱143.79.
DOE data showed that from March 10 to 16, gasoline ranged from ₱63.40 to ₱75 per liter, diesel from ₱70.95 to ₱91, and kerosene from ₱85 to ₱134.89. Garin explained that the hikes will primarily affect Metro Manila and urban areas, though prices may be higher in remote locations.
She reiterated the need to revisit the Oil Deregulation Law, noting:
“That is why I’m really for the revisiting of the Oil Deregulation Law, because I do believe this system is only effective during good times.”
To prevent price abuses, the DOE is intensifying monitoring of fuel stations nationwide and encouraging the public to report suspicious movements through the eGovPH mobile app.
Despite the surge, Garin assured that fuel supply remains stable until end-April, possibly extending into May with conservation measures.
The Philippines is also coordinating with suppliers in South Korea, Japan, and Thailand to secure additional supply if needed.
“I’m very confident about our supply… It’s just the price that is an issue,” she said.
Government agencies—including the DTI, DOTR, DA, DOH, and local governments—are preparing assistance programs to cushion the impact of the price hike.
“The government is really creating a new package so that we can address this unusual event right now,” Garin added.