MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed that the Philippines will receive up to 300,000 barrels of diesel next week from a Southeast Asian supplier, a move aimed at stabilizing fuel supply amid soaring global oil prices.

On March 19, 2026, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin announced that the government had already ordered between 250,000 and 300,000 barrels of diesel from an undisclosed Southeast Asian country. The shipment is expected to arrive next week and will be sold at cost to private oil firms. 

Garin explained that the procurement is part of the government’s effort to assist local companies in securing future fuel supplies through government-to-government arrangements.

The announcement comes as diesel prices in the Philippines have surged to record highs, with pump prices in North Luzon reaching ₱70 to ₱80 per liter and premium diesel costing as much as ₱94.65 per liter. Industry forecasts suggest that diesel prices could rise further by ₱19 to ₱22 per liter, while gasoline may increase by ₱14 to ₱17 per liter.

The DOE has been racing to secure emergency fuel supplies from the Asia-Pacific region since early March, as the ongoing Middle East conflict continues to disrupt global oil markets. 

Officials from the Oil Industry Management Bureau previously confirmed that the agency was coordinating with the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) to procure additional volumes to ensure a stable supply.

Energy officials emphasized that the diesel shipment will help cushion the impact of rising fuel costs on consumers and industries, though they acknowledged that the relief may be temporary given the volatility of global markets. 

“We continue to look for other sources on a government-to-government scheme, but the products will be sold at cost to private oil firms,” Garin said.

For motorists and businesses, the incoming shipment offers some hope of supply stability, but analysts warn that prices will remain elevated unless global tensions ease. The DOE’s proactive procurement underscores the urgency of securing fuel reserves as the Philippines braces for further economic strain from the energy crisis.