MANILA — Malacañang on Sunday firmly dismissed viral claims of an impending nationwide “energy lockdown,” assuring the public that there is no plan to shut down power supply even as the government remains on heightened alert over global fuel uncertainties.
“Fake news ito,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a text message to reporters, rejecting the circulating posts that triggered public concern and panic preparations online.
The clarification came after misleading messages spread across social media platforms warning of a supposed power shutdown beginning April 20, prompting households to stockpile emergency supplies such as power banks, solar devices, rechargeable fans, flashlights, candles, food, medicine, and water.
Authorities emphasized that the claims are entirely baseless and urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information that could sow unnecessary alarm.
Malacañang reiterated that no energy lockdown is being considered, stressing that contingency measures are already in place to ensure a stable and uninterrupted power supply despite ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting global oil markets.
Earlier, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national energy emergency for one year to cushion the country from potential supply disruptions and stabilize the energy sector.
As part of its mitigation efforts against rising global oil prices, the government is also set to roll out an expanded fuel subsidy program for the transport sector nationwide starting April 6, aimed at easing the burden on public utility drivers and operators./PN
