MANILA — The Philippines has received a new shipment of diesel fuel from Malaysia totaling around 329,000 barrels, equivalent to 52.311 million liters, as the government moves to strengthen supply amid ongoing instability in the global oil market linked to tensions in the Middle East.
This latest delivery follows an earlier import of 142,000 barrels (22.578 million liters) from Japan on March 26, carried out under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. through Executive Order 110, which aims to secure a steady and adequate oil supply for the country.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the arrival of the second shipment underscores the government’s proactive measures to reinforce fuel reserves as geopolitical risks continue to affect global supply chains.
She emphasized that increasing inventory levels is part of a broader strategy to cushion the country from possible disruptions, while ensuring that key sectors such as transportation, logistics, and power generation remain uninterrupted.
The Department of Energy (DOE) said it will continue coordinating with industry players and relevant agencies to maintain stable market conditions and protect consumers from potential supply constraints.
Authorities are also closely monitoring fuel inventories and distribution to prevent bottlenecks, with more diesel shipments from other countries expected to arrive within the month.
Despite external uncertainties, the DOE assured the public that the country’s fuel supply remains sufficient, although it acknowledged the Philippines’ vulnerability as a net importer of petroleum products.
ia/xf
