President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. clarified that the recently declared state of national energy emergency applies strictly to the energy sector and should not be mistaken for a broader national emergency.
Speaking to the media, Marcos emphasized that the declaration is “very specific and precise,” focused solely on safeguarding the country’s energy supply and stabilizing prices amid rising tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
He pointed to risks in global oil routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, where 20% of the world’s supply passes. Given the Philippines’ reliance on imported oil, he said the government must prepare for potential disruptions that could affect local supply and costs.
The President underscored that the emergency powers are confined to energy-related concerns:
“Hindi ito emergency ng pangkalahatan. It is very specific and a very precise emergency. It is an emergency of the energy sector.”
Marcos explained that the declaration serves as a “precautionary tool,” enabling the government to deploy measures such as fuel subsidies, reduced port charges, and coordination with other nations and private stakeholders to ensure stable energy supply.