Acting on the direct mandate of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to protect the Philippine economy from external shocks, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has authorized the release of P20 billion to the Department of Energy (DOE).
The funding, issued on March 24, 2026, via a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) and Notice of Cash Allocation (NCA), is earmarked for the government’s Emergency Energy Security Program. This proactive measure aims to stabilize domestic fuel availability and shield Filipino consumers from the volatility of the global oil market caused by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
The P20 billion intervention is sourced from the Malampaya Gas Fund under the Special Account in the General Fund (SAGF). This strategic allocation will be utilized for:
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Strategic Procurement: Bulk acquisition of diesel, gasoline, and LPG to boost the national fuel inventory.
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Price Stabilization: Buffering pump prices against sudden global spikes.
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Operational Continuity: Ensuring uninterrupted services in transport, logistics, agriculture, and emergency response.
The Philippine National Oil Company–Exploration Corporation (PNOC-EC) will spearhead the implementation, having already initiated procurement activities to immediately augment the domestic supply.
Budget Secretary Rolando “Rolly” U. Toledo emphasized that the swift approval of these funds reflects the administration’s “people-centered” approach to fiscal management.
“This is about protecting the daily life of every Filipino—from the jeepney driver and delivery rider to our farmers and ordinary families,” Secretary Toledo stated. “Under the President’s directive, we are moving with urgency. This is government acting ahead of the crisis—not reacting after the damage is done.”
Secretary Toledo further noted that the use of the Malampaya Gas Fund ensures that these urgent energy requirements are met without defunding other vital social and infrastructure programs.
As the global energy markets remain uncertain, the Marcos administration remains committed to maintaining a resilient and prepared nation. By securing fuel stocks ahead of potential supply chain disruptions, the government aims to keep goods flowing and public services running.
“Sa Bagong Pilipinas, hindi tayo nagpapahuli sa krisis (In the New Philippines, we don’t fall behind in a crisis). We anticipate, we prepare, and we act—to ensure that services and the lives of every Filipino continue without interruption,” Toledo concluded.
