MANILA DAILY - 25 MARCH 2026
Philippine Airlines Flag Carrier Warns of Possible Fuel Rationing as Energy Emergency Powers Remain Undefined; Iran Revolutionary Guards Strike US Bases in Kuwait Jordan Bahrain
Philippine Airlines flag possible fuel rationing as jet fuel crisis deepens
Flag carrier chief stated the Philippines may need to resort to fuel rationing amid tight supplies from the Iran war. Several countries continue refusing to refuel Philippine aircraft.
Sara Duterte impeachment hearings continue with 2028 presidential bid at stake
Vice President Sara Duterte faces ongoing impeachment proceedings marking escalation of Marcos-Duterte rift. Hearings represent critical political juncture ahead of 2028 presidential contest.
Marcos administration maintains national energy emergency as fuel shortages persist
Philippines continues state of national energy emergency with refueling bans forcing aircraft to carry round-trip fuel loads. Energy secretary announces increased coal reliance to address crisis.
DRIVING THE DAY
SUMMARY: The chief executive of Philippine Airlines stated March 25 that the Philippines may need to resort to fuel rationing amid tight supplies from the Iran war, according to the South China Morning Post, as several countries continue refusing to refuel Philippine aircraft. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin warned March 17 that the Philippines will experience its most expensive fuel prices yet, with diesel projected to hit 91 pesos per liter, though no updated price figures for March 25 appeared in coverage. The Guardian reported March 25 that Iran's Revolutionary Guards fired missiles at Israel and US forces in bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain, expanding the conflict beyond the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint and signaling Tehran's willingness to strike American targets across the Gulf despite reported peace negotiations. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr's March 24 declaration of a national energy emergency provided no details on committee composition, legal authorities activated, or coordination mechanisms with economic agencies. Vietnam announced March 24 it is leaning on Russia to weather the energy turmoil, reflecting regional scramble for alternative petroleum suppliers. No information on whether Manila has secured commitments from alternative fuel suppliers or coordinated emergency procurement with regional partners appeared in reporting. END SUMMARY.
