MALACAÑANG, Manila — While seeking ‘emergency power’ to cut excise tax on petroleum products due to projected price increases triggered by escalating conflict in the Middle East, the Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC) on orders of President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. is urging all government offices to strictly implement energy-saving measures to mitigate the impact of the war.

The president conducted a special cabinet meeting at the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday night, March 3, 2026, where the worsening situation in the Middle East was discussed thoroughly. The discussions focused more on the situation and repatriation of Filipinos, as well as its impact on oil supply and prices, inflation, and economic stability of the country.

In conclusion, a presudential directive Signed by IAEECC chair and energy secretary Sharon Garin has been issued with the advisory directing all national government agencies, government-owned or controlled corporations, state universities and colleges and local government units to reduce fuel consumption “by at least 10 percent.”

“In light of the recent global situation and the uncertainty in petroleum supply brought about by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the Department of Energy (DOE) is adopting a proactive and collective measure to safeguard the country’s energy security,” the directive spelled out.
Secretary Garin asserted that all government entities are encouraged to mandate fuel-efficiency and conservation measures in their offices and facilities in preparation of expected price increases on oil and petroleum products.

“All government entities must strictly implement fuel efficiency and conservation practices within their offices and operations, including regular and preventive vehicle maintenance, a standardized vehicle monitoring system, and the full-tank method for accurate measurement of vehicle fuel efficiency,” she stressed.

“They are also required to implement optimized trip management, a phased transition to electric or hybrid vehicles, fuel-efficient driver behavior, and submission of monthly consumption reports,” she added.
Accordingly, the DoE will be closely monitoring compliance with the advisory even as the agency's Energy Audit Team will conduct energy audits and random spot checks on all government entities in order to validate compliance.

Prior to the issuance of his energy-saving orders, President Marcos Jr. urged the public to conserve energy and prepare for a possible surge in petroleum prices due to a projected shortage in the coming weeks amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

“Our supply is sufficient. However, just in case, we may need to do this to reduce expenses, because prices are expected to go up,” the chief executive pointed out.

He likewise called on government officials to avoid unnecessary travel and urged them to practice carpooling. He also encouraged the use of public transport and ensuring private vehicles are fully occupied when traveling.