Energy & Mining

SM Supermalls will open later on weekdays nationwide starting March 30, shifting mall hours to 11:00 a.m. from Monday to Friday as part of efforts to conserve electricity during the ongoing National Energy Emergency. On Saturdays and Sundays, the malls open 10 a.m. Closing hours on all days will be at 9 p.m.

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.

Nickel mining operations in the Philippines could grind to a halt within 15 to 30 days if fuel supply disruptions persist, industry leaders warned, raising concerns over output and export stability.

Petron Corp., the Philippines’ largest oil company, sounded the alarm on the risks posed by severe fuel supply disruptions, warning of “catastrophic consequences” for the economy and national security as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue roil global oil markets.

The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) and the Department of Energy (DOE) are encouraging businesses to adopt energy-saving practices to help manage electricity costs and maintain grid stability, especially during the dry season and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.