Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian on Wednesday called on the Department of Energy (DOE) and Malacañang to immediately implement a fuel rationing system, warning that the country’s oil stocks are under threat due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Energy, noted that the Philippines currently holds only 51 days' worth of oil stocks. He cautioned that while new supplies are expected to arrive, they may only extend the country’s inventory by an additional 10 days, making early conservation efforts vital.
The senator acknowledged that the proposal is an unpopular decision that many Filipinos may find difficult to accept. However, he argued that it is the most practical measure to ensure the longevity of the current supply, noting that it is far more difficult to implement rationing once reserves have already been depleted.
"Considering the uncertainty of the country’s fuel supply in the medium-term, the DOE may want to consider implementing a fuel rationing plan to extend the country’s existing supply and prevent hoarding," Gatchalian said.
Under the proposed framework, the priority for fuel consumption would be shifted toward essential services such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police patrol cars.
Rationing would primarily target non-essential vehicles owned by private individuals, with Gatchalian stating that the specific mechanisms for enforcement should be left to the discretion of the DOE and the Office of the President.
In a show of solidarity, Gatchalian also appealed to his fellow lawmakers to lead by example by reducing or eliminating their motorcade convoys. He urged officials to stop using escorts and focus on conservation for the time being.
Additionally, the senator pushed for the government to fully optimize all public transportation systems.
“Stop doing convoys and using escorts. I think they should conserve for now and avoid having escorts.”
He noted that a robust transit network will be necessary to accommodate the anticipated influx of passengers as private vehicle owners are forced to limit their travel due to the rationing measures.
