Motorists need to prepare for another round of fuel price increases this week, with both gasoline and diesel expected to become more expensive due to rising global oil prices and renewed tensions in the Middle East.
A local fuel retailer said gasoline prices could increase by P0.75 to P1.25 per liter while diesel prices may rise by P2 to P2.50 per liter based on last week’s global trading.
The company said diesel prices are under stronger pressure because of higher crude oil costs linked to worsening geopolitical risks in the Middle East. It added that global diesel supplies remain tight as inventories continue to fall while seasonal demand begins to recover.
Gasoline prices are also being pushed upward by lower global fuel inventories and reduced refinery output in Asia. According to the retailer, some refineries are struggling to process lighter crude oil grades amid shortages of Middle East crude supply.
No forecast was provided for kerosene prices.
The expected increase follows mixed price adjustments last week, when gasoline prices rose by as much as P0.47 per liter while diesel prices dropped by at least P9.57 per liter.
Latest data from the Department of Energy (DOE) for May 4 to 11, 2026 showed fuel prices in the National Capital Region averaging P87.80 per liter for RON 91 gasoline, P89.50 for diesel, and P127.80 for kerosene. The DOE has yet to release updated monitoring data.
Meanwhile, the DOE said it is continuing the rollout of government-procured diesel to help maintain electricity supply in remote and off-grid areas served by the National Power Corp.’s Small Power Utilities Group.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said diesel secured by Philippine National Oil Co.–Exploration Corp. is being sold at P80 per liter to support power generation in missionary areas.
Under the program, up to 45 million liters of diesel will be sold over the next three months to new power providers and microgrid operators in off-grid communities.
The DOE said the initiative aims to prevent power interruptions, stabilize electricity generation, and protect consumers from sharp increases in power rates. The agency added that the measure is expected to strengthen energy security in island provinces such as Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Siquijor, where electricity generation still heavily depends on diesel fuel.
