The Department of Energy (DOE) has cautioned that diesel prices in the Philippines could potentially reach ₱200 per liter due to the ongoing global oil crisis, though the agency stressed that the situation remains uncertain.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the Philippine government has no control over fuel price fluctuations, which are largely determined by international markets and the actions of countries involved in the ongoing Middle East conflict.

"It's not within the control of our president nor of DOE or our oil companies. The prices are determined by the behavior of the international community. So if you ask me, is it going to reach 200? I really do hope it won't," Garin said.

She added that while the price may not have reached such levels historically, it remains a possibility depending on global developments.

Garin also noted that even after the conflict ends, fuel prices are unlikely to drop quickly due to permanent damage to energy infrastructure in the affected region.

The DOE continues to monitor global developments closely, urging the public and stakeholders to prepare for potential price surges while emphasizing that domestic policy measures have a limited impact on international fuel markets.