The Department of Energy (DOE) confirmed major across-the-board fuel price hikes taking effect this week, reversing last week’s slight rollback. Announced during a Monday briefing, the adjustments add P4.69 per liter for gasoline, P5.18 for diesel, and P5.58 for kerosene—marking significant increases that will impact households and businesses nationwide. So far, only Seaoil has formally set these new rates to start at 6 a.m. on September 8.
For households, the higher costs mean heavier expenses for daily commuting, cooking, and running personal vehicles, with kerosene users facing one of the steepest jumps. Businesses, especially those relying on transport and logistics, will see higher operating costs as diesel—their primary fuel—rises above P5 per liter. These increases may translate to pricier goods and services for consumers in turn.
Latest DOE data from September 1 to 7 shows pump prices in the National Capital Region averaging P73.60 per liter for RON 91 gasoline, P85.60 for diesel, and P114.30 for kerosene before this latest adjustment.
The DOE cited two main drivers: rising international oil prices due to renewed Middle East tensions, and the weaker peso against the US dollar—since fuel is traded in dollars, a local currency depreciation makes imports more expensive. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin explained these global and market factors are beyond local control, but assured the public that fuel supply remains stable and well above legal requirements. As of September 4, total supply covers 53.28 days, up from 47.22 days in August. Gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and jet fuel inventories all improved, though fuel oil and LPG reserves saw slight declines.
To ease the burden, qualified public utility vehicle drivers will continue receiving a P12 per liter fuel discount, worth up to P1,800 weekly. Garin noted the DOE is focused on maintaining supply, monitoring price movements, enforcing inventory rules, and delivering aid where possible.
DOE Oil Industry Management Bureau director Rino Abad said prices are expected to remain volatile but likely to stay within P80 to P100 per liter for diesel—well below the April peak of P155 per liter—unless tensions in the Red Sea disrupt major supply routes. He warned that closure of key shipping lanes could push prices higher, but current conditions point to stability within that range.
