DOE pursues strategic fuel diversification to ensure national energy security

In a move to safeguard the national fuel supply against global market volatility, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin announced on Tuesday that the Department of Energy (DOE) is actively diversifying its crude oil sourcing strategies.

While the Philippines currently maintains a robust fuel inventory, the DOE is proactively seeking alternatives to ensure stability should the 30-day waiver on Russian crude oil procurement not be extended.

Secretary Garin confirmed that the DOE is working closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to request a continued window or extension for the lifting of the embargo on Russian oil. The Philippine government is currently awaiting a response from U.S. authorities regarding this request.

“We are very positive on getting this other window,” Garin stated. “We wanted to open the Russian window because we want more options. Diversification is necessary so we are not dependent on just one country.”

Should the Russian extension remain unavailable, Secretary Garin emphasized that the Philippines has already identified and engaged with several alternative global partners. The DOE’s diversification roadmap includes:

• South America: Exploring crude imports from Colombia and Argentina.

• North America: Strengthening ties with Canada and the United States.

• Regional Refined Products: Sourcing finished petroleum products from neighboring partners such as Brunei and India.

Despite the shifting geopolitical landscape, the DOE assures the public that the national fuel supply remains stable and sufficient. Current weekly reports from oil companies indicate no existing orders from Russia, yet the domestic inventory remains healthy.

Secretary Garin reiterated that the DOE’s primary objective is to maintain a resilient energy sector through proactive planning and international cooperation, ensuring that Filipino consumers and industries remain unaffected by international supply fluctuations.