• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The third straight week of double-digit increases in the pump prices of petroleum products will take effect today, March 24, with diesel nearing P130, and gasoline breaching the P100 per liter mark.
Oil companies announced last night that diesel will increase by P16.80/L, gasoline by P9.70/L, and kerosene by P20.90/L, effective this morning.
Unlike the staggered implementation of fuel hikes the previous two weeks, the latest adjustments will be applied in full, with the prices reflecting the volatility of the global oil market, with the continued tensions in the Middle East affecting energy infrastructure and supply routes.
Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DOE) said March 23 that it has authorized the “temporary and controlled introduction of Euro II/2 petroleum products”, or fuels with higher emissions, for selected transport and industrial uses, including traditional jeepneys and generators, as contingency measure to help safeguard the country’s fuel supply amid continued volatility in global oil.
Under Department Circular No. DC2026-03-0010, the DOE said “the interim use of Euro II/2 fuels is limited to in-use vehicle models from 2015 and earlier, traditional jeepneys, industrial applications such as power plants and generators, and the marine and shipping industry.”
“We are adopting a prudent and temporary measure to help ensure an adequate and accessible fuel supply for sectors that may require limited flexibility during this period,” DOE Secretary Sharon Garin said in a statement. “This interim authority is subject to strict quality controls, clear notification requirements, and appropriate consumer protection measures.”
It does not replace the country’s Euro IV fuel standards, which remain in force; rather, it provides a narrowly-targeted response to external risks affecting specific sectors, the DOE stressed.
Oil companies are required to maintain full segregation of Euro II/2 and Euro IV/4 fuels across storage, transport, and retail systems. “Those intending to offer Euro II/2 fuels must also notify the DOE, through the Oil Industry Management Bureau, and identify the retail outlets where such products will be made available.”
The DOE warned that fuel adulteration, non-compliance with prescribed quality specifications, and other violations will be subject to penalties. “Clear and prominent advisories must be posted at fuel stations and other retail outlets offering Euro II/2 products. These advisories must clearly state that the fuel carries Euro II specifications and that consumers must verify vehicle compatibility before use.” | CGC
