MANILA — Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may declare a state of national emergency to address rising energy costs and supply concerns, but only if the situation deteriorates further, Malacañang said Wednesday.
In an interview, Palace press officer Claire Castro said the move is “possible,” though it has yet to be formally discussed by the Cabinet.
“The President may declare a state of national emergency if the right situation comes, especially when the government sees that many are exploiting the situation,” Castro said.
She noted that fuel price hikes are largely driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict, which she described as an external factor beyond the government’s control.
While acknowledging that higher fuel costs could trigger increases in the prices of basic goods, Castro stressed that any adjustments must be justified. She urged businesses to avoid excessive pricing, calling on the private sector to “temper their greed” as consumers face mounting financial pressure.
The statement marks a shift from Castro’s earlier position rejecting calls from the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) for the government to take over the oil industry to curb soaring fuel prices, which have surpassed the ₱100-per-liter mark.
TUCP had cited provisions under Republic Act No. 8479, which allow government intervention in the oil sector during a national emergency. The law’s constitutionality was upheld by the Supreme Court of the Philippines in a 2023 ruling.
Malacañang said any decision to invoke emergency powers would depend on how the energy situation evolves, particularly if market abuses or supply disruptions intensify.