Malacañang on Saturday urged government agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in responding to the potential impact of escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning that complacency could leave the country vulnerable to economic shocks.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed concerned agencies to closely monitor developments abroad and prepare measures to cushion Filipinos from possible consequences, particularly those affecting fuel prices and the broader economy.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the President wants the government fully prepared as instability in the Middle East continues to unfold.
“Ang mensahe ni Pangulong Marcos, Jr. patungkol sa ating paghahanda ay nararapat at napapanahon. Nais ng Pangulo na maging handa sa anumang sitwasyon lalo pa at hindi pa nahihinto ang kasalukuyang kondisyon sa Middle East. Hindi panahon na matulog lang nang mahimbing dahil tayo ang talo kapag nagpakampante ang gobyerno,” Castro said.
She noted that Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Sharon Garin echoed the President’s call, saying the directive reflects the administration’s concern for Filipino households that could be affected by fluctuations in global oil prices.
Quoting Garin, Castro said the President’s public message signals the government’s determination to prepare early for the potential economic effects of the Middle East conflict.
“The message from no less than the President is a manifestation of his concern for our country and each Filipino household. We need to prepare for the impact of the Middle East war on our daily lives. Announcing it is more prudent,” Garin said.
Castro added that even before the President publicly addressed the issue, Marcos had already issued instructions to key agencies to begin planning interventions that could help ease the burden on consumers.
“Before President Marcos, Jr. made the announcement, he already gave us marching orders to implement and plan interventions to alleviate the burden on Filipinos. Hence, for the whole-of-government approach, including the monitoring and discipline of gas stations,” she said.
The DOE assured the public that the country currently has an adequate supply of fuel and there is no reason for panic buying, even as authorities remain on alert amid uncertainties in global markets.
Under the President’s directive, any adjustments in fuel prices must follow the established schedule, with unauthorized or premature increases strictly prohibited.
The DOE, together with the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police, has also intensified inspections of fuel stations across the country to prevent hoarding, profiteering, and possible manipulation of supply.
“We urge the public to remain calm. The government is taking the necessary steps to ensure a stable fuel supply and fair pricing nationwide,” the DOE said.