President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national energy emergency on March 24, 2026, citing threats to the country's fuel supply amid escalating Middle East hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The declaration, formalized through Executive Order No. 110, establishes emergency powers to manage energy resources and protect the domestic economy from global oil market disruptions.
The executive order creates the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT), a comprehensive government response framework designed to coordinate emergency measures across multiple sectors. According to the Malacañang-issued document, the program aims to "safeguard national interest by ensuring the stability of domestic energy supply" and mitigate economic impacts from volatile international oil prices.
Middle East Conflict Triggers Supply Chain Concerns
The emergency declaration specifically addresses risks posed by the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has created "uncertainty in global energy markets, severe disruptions in supply chains, and significant volatility and upward pressure on international oil prices," according to the executive order. The document highlights particular concern over potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, described as "a critical energy corridor for global oil shipments."
The Secretary of Energy determined these circumstances pose "an imminent danger of a critically low energy supply," prompting urgent measures to ensure adequate domestic fuel availability. As a net importer of petroleum products, the Philippines remains "highly dependent on external sources of fuel supply and is therefore vulnerable to disruptions in global oil production and transportation," the order states.
UPLIFT Committee Coordinates Emergency Response
The newly established UPLIFT Committee, chaired by President Marcos himself, includes key cabinet secretaries overseeing critical sectors. Committee members comprise the Executive Secretary and heads of the Departments of Energy, Transportation, Social Welfare and Development, Agriculture, Finance, Economy Planning and Development, and Budget and Management.
The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development will serve as the committee's secretariat, providing technical and administrative support for implementation. The committee is authorized to "monitor and ensure the continued and orderly movement, supply, distribution, and availability of fuel, food, medicines, agricultural products, and other essential goods."
Department of Energy Gains Emergency Powers
Under the emergency declaration, the Department of Energy receives broad authority to implement fuel allocation plans and energy conservation measures. These powers include coordinating with government agencies to stabilize energy supply, taking action against hoarding and profiteering, and directing attached agencies including the Philippine National Oil Company to assist in fuel procurement when necessary.
The DOE is also authorized to adopt resource conservation mechanisms, including possible suspension of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market if needed, and accelerate connection of additional generation capacity to the power grid. The department must ensure strict implementation of the Government Energy Management Program across all government offices.
Transport and Consumer Support Measures Activated
The Department of Transportation is directed to implement fuel and fare subsidies, expand transport programs, and consider toll adjustments to mitigate impact on commuters and goods movement. The Department of Social Welfare and Development will release assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program and provide livelihood support to affected communities.
The Department of Trade and Industry will monitor price increases and support micro, small, and medium enterprises, while the Department of Agriculture ensures food supply stability and assists farmers and fisherfolk. The Department of Migrant Workers is tasked with supporting overseas Filipino workers, including potential evacuation and repatriation through the AKSYON fund.
Local Government and Private Sector Cooperation Encouraged
Local government units are urged to support national energy conservation measures and allocate resources as needed to complement emergency response efforts. The executive order encourages private sector participation in energy conservation, workforce support, and preventing profiteering activities.
All agencies under the emergency framework must "ensure efficient movement of goods and services" while the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies provide necessary support to implementing departments.
Legal Framework Based on Existing Energy Laws
The emergency declaration draws authority from Section 25 of Republic Act 7638, the Department of Energy Act of 1992, which authorizes the President to declare critically low energy supply situations upon recommendation of the Energy Secretary. The order also invokes constitutional provisions granting the President control over executive departments and general supervision over local governments.
The emergency powers include implementation of energy allocation plans authorized under existing laws including Republic Acts 8479, 12120, and 9511, providing legal basis for government intervention in energy markets during crisis situations.
One-Year Emergency Period with Extension Option
Executive Order No. 110 remains in force for one year from its publication date, with provisions for extension or earlier termination based on evolving circumstances. Funding for emergency measures will come from existing government appropriations and other lawful sources, with the Department of Budget and Management ensuring adequate financial resources.
The order includes standard legal provisions ensuring that if any section is declared invalid, remaining provisions continue in force, while repealing any conflicting previous executive orders or regulations.
The emergency declaration represents the government's most comprehensive response to energy security threats since similar measures during previous oil crises, emphasizing coordination between national agencies, local governments, and private sector stakeholders to maintain economic stability while protecting vulnerable populations from fuel price volatility.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Malacañang Palace