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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that he signed an executive order to protect the country’s energy security, warning of an “imminent danger” to both the availability and stability of energy supplies.

The war involving the United States and Israel against Iran, along with the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global shipping route—has disrupted energy markets worldwide. This has led to shortages and sharp increases in fuel prices.

The Philippines relies on imports for 98% of its oil, mostly from the Gulf region. Since the conflict began on February 28, the prices of petrol and diesel in the country have more than doubled.

Marcos said the emergency declaration allows the government to take necessary legal measures to ensure energy stability and protect the economy. A special committee has been created to oversee the distribution of essential goods such as fuel, food, and medicine.

The government is also authorized to directly purchase fuel and petroleum products to maintain supply levels. The emergency status will remain in effect for one year unless the president decides to extend or lift it.

The move follows pressure from several senators who urged the president to recognize the severe impact of rising oil prices on Filipino families.

Fuel prices surged again on Tuesday, reaching more than twice their levels before the war. However, the labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) criticized the declaration, calling it an admission that the government had failed to manage the oil crisis effectively.

The group also accused the administration of previously downplaying the situation by claiming that conditions were normal. It raised concerns about provisions in the executive order that could restrict activities like strikes, arguing that these measures could limit workers’ ability to protest during a time of financial strain.

On the other hand, businessman Manuel V. Pangilinan, who leads several major utility companies, supported the emergency powers. He said rising energy costs are already affecting business operations and that the government should have full flexibility to respond to the crisis.

Meanwhile, transport workers and ride-hailing groups are planning a two-day strike on Thursday and Friday, reflecting growing frustration over high fuel costs and what they see as an insufficient government response.

The transport group Piston, which is organizing the strike, has called for major reforms, including removing fuel taxes, reducing oil prices, ending deregulation, and introducing government controls. They are also demanding higher fares and increased wages.

Since the conflict in the Middle East began, the government has introduced subsidies for transport drivers, reduced ferry services, and implemented a four-day workweek for civil servants to conserve fuel.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin stated that the country currently has about 45 days’ worth of fuel supply remaining. She also noted that the Philippines may temporarily rely more on coal-fired power plants due to the rising cost of liquefied natural gas.

Asia is particularly vulnerable to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, as nearly 90% of the oil and gas passing through the route last year was destined for the region.