Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso has ordered a 50 percent cut in fuel consumption for all city government operations, aimed at preparing the city for a potential ‘oil shock’ following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and escalating conflict in Middle East.
In a report by RH Boy Gonzales, the move comes as tensions in Iran escalate and the Strait of Hormuz faces an effective closure, a development that could block about 20 percent of the world’s oil supply.
“The country of Iran declared a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, thus, the flow of 20 percent of the world’s oil is physically blocked,” Domagoso said.
“The City government of Manila must act to protect public funds, maintain essential public services, and reduce exposure to fuel supply and price shocks by instituting immediate fuel conservation measures,” he added.
Under Executive Order No. 7, series of 2026, signed Monday, March 2, Domagoso said, “the ongoing armed conflict in the Middle East and Operation Epic Fury in full effect (the joint US-Israel strike against Iran) will eventually contribute to significant global oil market volatility, supply disruptions, and upward pressure on fuel prices, with adverse effects on the national and local economy and the fiscal position of the City of Manila.”
All city departments and offices are instructed to cut fuel usage for vehicles, generators, heavy equipment, and other machinery. The order encourages route optimization, consolidated deliveries, and reduced mileage.
Non-essential travel, including foreign trips and educational tours, is prohibited unless critical to city operations. City offices are also urged to implement electricity conservation measures, conduct online meetings, and reduce the use of lighting and HVAC systems.
Flexible work arrangements, such as staggered shifts, compressed workweeks, and remote work, are approved wherever feasible.
Emergency response operations, including police, fire, ambulance, public health, disaster risk reduction, garbage collection, and traffic management, are exempt from the fuel reduction measures.
Domagoso said the order takes effect immediately and will remain in force until the city’s fuel supply is deemed secure.
