Philippines seeks to build govt oil stockpile

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Manila: The Philippine government is taking steps to establish a strategic national petroleum stockpile to bolster the country's energy security.

The Department of Energy announced the initiative as a proactive measure to cushion the domestic economy from sudden global supply disruptions and extreme price volatility.

Currently, the Philippines remains highly vulnerable to external energy shocks due to its heavy reliance on foreign oil imports to sustain its transport and industrial sectors.

Unlike several neighboring Asian nations, the country has traditionally relied on private oil companies to maintain localized emergency inventories.

The proposed state-owned reserve will create a government-managed buffer of crude oil and refined petroleum products. Officials plan to implement the project in phases, prioritizing essential fuels such as diesel and gasoline to keep critical infrastructure operating during international emergencies.