MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led a series of initiatives this week aimed at strengthening the country’s energy security while sustaining key development programs as tensions in the Middle East continue to threaten global fuel supply.
The government’s actions reflected a two-pronged strategy: responding to immediate risks brought about by geopolitical instability while continuing long-term projects in infrastructure, agriculture, and policy reforms intended to support economic growth.
To shield the country from potential disruptions in fuel supply, Marcos issued Executive Order (EO) 110 on March 24, declaring a state of national energy emergency. The move came amid growing concerns that escalating conflict in the Middle East could trigger volatility in global oil markets.
The order introduced the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food and Transport (UPLIFT) framework, which aims to ensure stable domestic energy supply, uninterrupted delivery of basic services, and protection for sectors most vulnerable to rising fuel costs.
Fuel subsidies rolled out
As global oil prices continue to fluctuate, Marcos underscored the need for proactive government measures to maintain energy stability.
On the same day EO 110 was issued, the President led the rollout of fuel subsidies for public utility vehicle drivers and operators at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange.
The program, funded with PHP2.5 billion under the Department of Transportation’s Fuel Subsidy Project, seeks to cushion the transport sector from rising fuel expenses.
Under the initiative, bus operators will receive PHP10,000 in assistance while drivers are entitled to PHP5,000 each. Distribution will be made through checks, fuel cards and other payment channels.
On March 25, Marcos addressed the nation to explain the declaration of the energy emergency and to outline government efforts to mitigate the impact of Middle East tensions on the Philippines.
He also urged Filipinos to remain united and vigilant during uncertain times, highlighting the importance of bayanihan, or collective cooperation.
In a vlog posted earlier on March 22, the President reminded the public to exercise responsibility in sharing information online, particularly as misinformation often spreads rapidly during crises.
Support for overseas Filipinos
Protecting the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) remained a major concern of the administration.
On March 23, Marcos welcomed a group of repatriated Filipinos arriving from the Middle East, assuring them of continued government support as they reintegrate into the country.
A total of 343 repatriates — including 317 OFWs and 26 dependents from Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia — arrived at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City aboard a chartered Philippine Airlines flight.
The returning workers and their families were provided financial assistance, medical care and psychosocial services as part of the government’s reintegration program.
Infrastructure projects move forward
Despite global uncertainties, the administration continued to advance major infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and economic activity.
Among the latest accomplishments was the completion of the Atlu Bola Bypass Road in Mabalacat, Pampanga, a long-delayed project expected to ease traffic congestion and improve mobility in Central Luzon.
Marcos also approved the release of PHP145.56 billion for the Central Mindanao High Standard Highway Project, ensuring sustained funding from 2026 to 2034 to strengthen transport links and stimulate economic growth in Mindanao.
On Friday, the President inaugurated the westbound off-ramp of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway along Andrews Avenue leading to Terminal 3 in Pasay City.
The new infrastructure is expected to shorten travel time by 15 to 25 minutes for motorists coming from the South Luzon Expressway, Skyway Stage 3 and Lawton Avenue, particularly during peak hours.
Agriculture and food security initiatives
Efforts to strengthen food security also continued.
On March 23, Marcos inspected solar-powered irrigation facilities in Camarines Sur that are expected to benefit more than 1,800 farmers in the towns of Minalabac and Bula.
The projects, valued at PHP332 million, are designed to lower irrigation costs while boosting agricultural productivity and income.
Among the initiatives are the PHP126.7-million Solar Pump Irrigation Project managed by the San Agustin-San Ramon Agrarian Reform Farmers’ Cooperative in Bula, and the PHP205.46-million New MASSBA Solar Pump Irrigation Project Phase I in Minalabac.
The President also visited the Bicol Mega Cold Storage and Vegetable and Fruit Processing Facility in Pili, Camarines Sur, which forms part of the government’s efforts to strengthen the country’s agricultural value chain.
The facility includes six refrigerated storage rooms, a blast freezer, preparation areas and a solar power system capable of preserving over 200,000 tons of agricultural produce annually.
It is expected to benefit more than 200,000 farmers and agricultural cooperatives in the Bicol Region, as well as in the Visayas and Mindanao.
Meanwhile, on March 26, Marcos inspected a multi-purpose drying pavement and onion cold storage facility in Ramon, Isabela, another project aimed at improving post-harvest systems for farmers.
Education reforms and Marawi rehabilitation
The administration also moved forward with reforms in the education sector.
On March 22, Marcos approved the shift to a three-term academic calendar beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, a change intended to minimize learning disruptions caused by natural disasters and other interruptions.
At the same time, the President directed government agencies to accelerate the long-delayed rehabilitation of Marawi City.
Under the Reconstruction and Development Plan for a Greater Marawi Stage 2, infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, drainage systems and slope protection works will be completed as part of the Bangon Marawi Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery Program.
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