Philippines Faces Potential Fuel Shortages as Importations Stall
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines may experience further disruptions to fuel supply, with potential closures of more gas stations in the coming weeks, as petroleum companies report difficulties securing importations beyond April. This development contradicts assurances from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. And Energy Secretary Sharon Garin regarding the replenishment of the country’s fuel inventory.
As of Wednesday, March 25, 2026, the Philippine National Police reported that 415 out of 14,269 gas stations nationwide were temporarily closed due to supply constraints. The hardest-hit regions include the Cordillera Administrative Region (78 stations), Cagayan Valley (50), Central Luzon (42), Calabarzon (35), and Bicol Region (30).
Industry Representatives Testify to Importation Difficulties
During a Senate hearing on March 26, 2026, representatives from both large and independent petroleum companies testified that securing fuel supplies is proving increasingly challenging. Rafael Capinpin, executive director of the Philippine Institute for Petroleum, stated that while members are “working very hard to secure supply,” it has been “very hard” to do so, particularly for deliveries in May. He noted that many traders are hesitant to commit, and tenders for May have gone unanswered.
Tanya Samillano, president of the Independent Philippine Petroleum Companies Association, echoed this sentiment, confirming that while current importations are still arriving, there has been no confirmation for future deliveries beyond April. She also indicated that available offers in the market come with significantly higher prices.
Export Bans and Reduced Refinery Production
Petron Corporation general manager Lubin Nepomuceno highlighted that securing crude oil and finished products is more challenging due to temporary export bans imposed by countries like China, Thailand, and Singapore. He argued that the government should prioritize ensuring sufficient supply over addressing high prices, warning that “supply disruption will be more expensive and catastrophic to the economy.”
Chevron Philippines general manager Pongtorn Tangmanuswong stated their inventory would last until the end of April, based on normal demand. However, he acknowledged that export bans are an “uncontrollable factor” impacting supply security. Shipments for May are still being finalized but remain unconfirmed.
Shell Pilipinas president and CEO Lorelie Quiambao described the supply situation as “tighter and tighter,” urging the Philippine government to engage in government-to-government talks to ensure that supply contracts are honored and cargo is not diverted.
Recent Leadership Changes at the Department of Energy
These concerns arise following a recent cabinet reshuffle. In July 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Appointed Sharon Garin as the latest Secretary of the Department of Energy (DOE). Garin, a lawyer and CPA, had previously served as an Iloilo representative and DOE undersecretary. She had been serving as DOE officer-in-charge since May 2025, taking over from Raphael Lotilla, who was appointed Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
President Marcos Jr. Also ordered the DOE to secure more fuel sources in January 2026.