MANILA, Philippines — Fuel prices in the Philippines are set to surge again next week, with diesel possibly reaching P130 per liter and gasoline climbing past P100 per liter, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). The increases are driven by global oil market volatility and the ongoing Middle East conflict, which continues to disrupt supply chains.

The DOE confirmed that starting March 17, 2026, oil companies will implement significant price hikes. Gasoline is expected to rise by P12.90 to P16.60 per liter, while diesel could increase by P20.40 to P23.90 per liter. Kerosene will also see an uptick of P6.90 to P8.90 per liter. These adjustments will push pump prices to record highs, with diesel potentially hitting P130 per liter and gasoline surpassing P100 per liter in some areas.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said during a press briefing, “Fuel prices will rise again this week after the Department of Energy officially announced price adjustments for gasoline, kerosene, and diesel starting March 17.” She emphasized that the increases are unavoidable given the global oil market situation.

The DOE explained that the surge is largely due to the ongoing war in the Middle East, particularly the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The joint airstrikes that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have escalated tensions, with Iran vowing retaliation. This geopolitical instability has caused crude oil prices to spike worldwide, directly impacting the Philippines, which imports nearly all of its fuel requirements.

Local oil firms have already begun implementing staggered increases to cushion the blow for consumers. However, industry analysts warn that the coming week’s adjustments will still be felt heavily by households and businesses. Transport groups have expressed concern that the hikes will force them to raise fares, while consumer groups fear a domino effect on food and basic goods prices.

The Philippine News Agency reported that five major oil companies will roll out the increases in phases, but the cumulative effect will still be substantial. DOE monitoring data shows that gasoline prices could range from P63.40 to P75.00 per liter, diesel from P70.95 to P91.00 per liter, and kerosene from P85.00 to P134.89 per liter before the new hikes are applied.

Consumers are bracing for what could be one of the steepest fuel price surges in recent years. The DOE has urged the public to practice energy efficiency and conservation measures, while assuring that it continues to monitor global developments closely.

With diesel possibly breaching P130 per liter and gasoline crossing P100 per liter, the coming week is expected to test the resilience of Filipino households and businesses already grappling with inflationary pressures.