Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) on Tuesday, March 3, urged the public to conserve fuel and energy, as Middle East tensions threaten global supply.
Lacson, who also called for prayers, said he hopes that the conflict does not worsen following the attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.
While U.S. President Donald Trump estimates that the conflict with Iran could last up to five weeks, Lacson said “I am sure it will go beyond that.”
The governor warned that fuel prices will definitely go up with Iran’s closing of the Strait of Hormuz, as suppliers would be forced to take longer, more costly routes.
“We are hoping things will not get worse,” he said.
Lacson said the provincial government already utilizes a “Capitol Cab” system to monitor the use of fuel by its fleet.
However, considering the current situation, he will remind the various offices to be even more conscious regarding the usage of government vehicles, Lacson said.
“I’m just hoping there will be no rationing (of fuel), that is a possibility,” Lacson said, as he stressed the need for continued prayers.
CONSERVE SUPPLY
MBCCI President Juliana Carbon also called for the public to conserve fuel and energy.
“Definitely, the supply of fuel and its price will be affected. There is a need to make an inventory of what we have and how long it will last, and we have to prevent hoarding,” Carbon said.
There is a need to identify alternative fuel suppliers, such as Malaysia and other oil-producing countries not currently embroiled in the conflict, she said.
Despite the concerns, Carbon advised the public not to be alarmed as the government and the private sector are already foreseeing potential problems and finding remedies.
‘ECONOMY COULD WORSEN’
However, Wennie Sancho, secretary general of the General Alliance of Workers Association (GAWA), warned that the Middle East war would worsen the country’s economic situation.
Workers could face higher inflation, job losses, and an economic slowdown, the labor leader warned.
“As a net oil importer, the country is vulnerable to rising global crude prices, which could lead to higher fuel costs, increased transportation fares, and elevated electricity rates. This, in turn, will fuel inflation, strain micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and undermine economic growth,” Sancho said.
Sancho added that the situation is exacerbated by the Philippines’ total foreign debt, which is projected to reach P5.78 trillion by the end of 2026.
He also cited a loss of confidence in government institutions due to pervasive corruption as an added vulnerability.
“Prolonged conflict could lead to job losses, recession, and social unrest. The government’s response will be crucial in navigating these challenges in terms of policy direction,” Sancho said.
ADEQUARE SUPPLY
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin assured the public on Tuesday that the domestic fuel supply remains adequate.
She stated that measures are currently being undertaken alongside oil industry players to ensure a stable supply despite the ongoing instability in the Middle East.*
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