The government and energy sector players are rolling out emergency measures to protect electricity supply and limit price increases as global fuel markets remain unstable amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The Energy Regulatory Commission has ordered a temporary nationwide suspension of the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM), shifting operations to special rules set by the Department of Energy (DOE).
During the suspension, power dispatch will prioritize renewable energy to conserve fuel. A temporary pricing system will also be introduced, setting rates depending on the type of power plant to better reflect current fuel costs and avoid sudden spikes in electricity prices.
The ERC said the move aims to balance consumer protection with the need to keep power plants operating. The suspension will stay in place until market conditions stabilize.
The DOE, meanwhile, has ordered all energy sector players to implement fuel conservation measures. Initial estimates show spot market electricity prices could rise above ₱9 per kilowatt-hour, up from about ₱5 before the Middle East tensions.
To offset this, the DOE said maximizing renewable and local energy sources could reduce price increases by up to ₱2 per kWh.
The government has also activated a ₱20-billion emergency fuel fund to boost supply. The program includes buying up to 2 million barrels of fuel and increasing local stockpiles, to be managed by the Philippine National Oil Company and its subsidiary.
In addition, power distributor Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is pushing businesses to cut electricity use and join the Interruptible Load Program, which encourages large consumers to use their own generators during supply shortages.
As of February 2026, 105 companies are enrolled in the program, providing over 500 megawatts of backup capacity.
Officials said the combined measures aim to ensure stable electricity supply, manage fuel use, and protect consumers from sharp increases in power and fuel costs.
