The municipality of Ajuy in Iloilo was placed under a state of calamity due to an ongoing energy crisis affecting residents and local industries.
Mayor Loida Espinosa said the declaration was approved through a resolution passed by the Sangguniang Bayan following a recommendation from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
She said the situation has disrupted essential services, particularly transportation and livelihoods in affected communities.
The declaration followed earlier calamity declarations by three island barangays, namely Tagubanhan, Punta Buri, and Nasidman, where many residents rely on fishing.
Espinosa said high fuel prices have worsened conditions, noting that diesel has reached around Php 130 per liter, affecting both mobility and fishing operations.
She added that electricity in these areas depends heavily on diesel-powered generators, making power supply costly and unstable.
Local officials said the declaration serves as recognition that daily activities have been significantly affected, although authorities have yet to fully assess impacts on the transport sector.
Despite the situation, the municipal government said it is prioritizing energy conservation measures, encouraging fishers to adopt sail-assisted methods and providing support such as materials for boats and assistance to transport workers.