MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. assured Filipinos that the government is closely tracking the situation in the Middle East and is ready to extend assistance if tensions in the region worsen.
Speaking after leading the distribution of cash assistance to tricycle drivers in Sta. Mesa, Manila on Tuesday, the President said authorities are actively monitoring developments abroad to ensure the government can respond quickly if necessary.
“Nandito ang gobyerno. Nandito ang pamahalaan at talagang binabantayan natin kung anong mga bagong pangyayari, kung ano pang darating,” President Marcos said.
He said the administration is prepared to help Filipinos who might be affected by possible economic repercussions, particularly if the conflict leads to higher fuel prices that could disrupt livelihoods and transportation costs.
Marcos also sought to ease public concerns, expressing hope that the conflict in the Gulf region would not significantly impact the Philippines.
“Patuloy lang at hindi naman masyadong maging problema itong nangyaring giyera sa Middle East. Asahan po ninyong kami po ay nakabantay at nakaalalay sa lahat ng ating mga kababayan,” he said.
Earlier, the President instructed concerned government agencies to prepare contingency plans and strengthen energy conservation measures amid the possibility of rising oil prices linked to the tensions overseas.
Malacañang said the government is keeping a close watch on fuel price movements and other potential economic consequences, noting that instability in the oil-producing Middle East could disrupt global supply and increase transportation costs.
The Philippines relies heavily on imported oil, making the country particularly sensitive to geopolitical conflicts that can push international petroleum prices higher and affect domestic fuel costs.
To help cushion the impact of volatile fuel prices, Marcos also certified as urgent a proposed amendment to the Biofuels Act of 2006, which seeks to enhance the country’s ability to respond to fluctuations in the global oil market./PN
