TACLOBAN CITY—Amid rising concerns over global oil supply disruptions, House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan is urging the government to strengthen the country’s energy security by developing strategic petroleum storage facilities in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Libanan called on the state-owned Philippine National Oil Co. (PNOC) to invest in critical coastal fuel depots that would serve as buffer reserves, protecting the country from volatile global oil prices and supply shocks linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

“The oil crisis caused by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran clearly underscores the urgent need for the government, through PNOC, to establish its own emergency fuel reserves,” Libanan said in a statement on Sunday, March 29.

“We need a government-managed buffer stock of key petroleum products—particularly diesel, gasoline, and jet fuel—that can be rapidly deployed during times of crisis,” he added.

The lawmaker emphasized that establishing storage facilities outside Luzon would help ensure a more balanced and efficient fuel distribution system nationwide. He specifically urged PNOC to prioritize coastal hubs in the Visayas and Mindanao to improve accessibility in these regions.

As a model, Libanan pointed to the Subic Bay Freeport Zone facility operated by Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corp. (PCSPC), which has a storage capacity of 6.3 million barrels, or roughly one billion liters, of fuel. The facility currently supplies Luzon, including much of Metro Manila, through a wide network of petroleum clients.

The Subic facility is owned by I Squared Capital, a U.S.-based private equity firm focused on global infrastructure investments.

“Developing coastal petroleum storage facilities is fully aligned with PNOC’s core mission, and a national buffer stock would help extend the country’s ability to withstand severe global or domestic energy disruptions,” Libanan said.

PNOC was established in 1973 following the global energy crisis triggered by the Arab oil embargo, with the mandate of ensuring a stable energy supply and promoting self-sufficiency.

The Department of Energy (DOE) recently authorized PNOC to procure up to two million barrels of buffer fuel in response to continued instability in the Middle East and Malacañang’s declaration of a state of national energy emergency.

An initial shipment of 22.58 million liters, equivalent to about 142,000 barrels of diesel, arrived in the country on March 26.

PNOC has so far secured 165.7 million liters of fuel, with additional deliveries expected throughout April, according to Energy Secretary Sharon Garin.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY—Amid escalating fuel prices, the Tingog party-list is calling for immediate government intervention through targeted fuel subsidies to protect farmers and fisherfolk and prevent potential disruptions to the country’s food supply.

In a press statement issued on March 27, the group stressed that rising fuel costs are placing mounting pressure on food producers, particularly small-scale farmers and fisherfolk who rely heavily on fuel for daily operations.

Tingog underscored the critical role of the agriculture and fisheries sector in the Philippine economy, noting that it contributes over a trillion pesos annually and ensures a steady food supply for households nationwide. However, it pointed out that those at the frontlines of food production remain among the most economically vulnerable.

The group highlighted that fisherfolk are especially affected, as fuel expenses account for a significant share of their operational costs. Continued price increases, it warned, could force many to scale down or halt their activities altogether.

Tingog also cited broader industry trends, noting that while agriculture has posted modest gains, segments of the fisheries sector continue to decline—challenges further aggravated by rising input costs, particularly fuel.

The party-list cautioned that the effects could ripple beyond producers, potentially resulting in reduced food supply, higher market prices, and increased financial strain on Filipino households.

“To protect the country’s food supply, immediate intervention is needed,” the group said, emphasizing that any subsidy program should be time-bound, well-targeted, and efficiently distributed to those most affected.

Tingog concluded that supporting farmers and fisherfolk amid rising fuel costs is essential to maintaining stable food production and safeguarding consumers from further price increases, urging swift government action.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY—Business leaders, advocates, and women entrepreneurs gathered for the WEERA Summit 2026, marking the formal launch of the Women Entrepreneurs for Economic and Regional Advancement (WEERA), a new initiative aimed at strengthening women-led enterprises and driving inclusive regional development.

The summit introduced WEERA as a platform designed to connect, support, and elevate women entrepreneurs across various industries, particularly in the regions, where access to resources and networks remains a challenge.

In her keynote address, Myren Garcia described the initiative as a “bold step forward” in advancing women’s economic participation, noting that it builds on the two-decade legacy of the Network for Enterprising Women (NEW), which also celebrated its 20th anniversary during the event.

WEERA seeks to expand opportunities for women in business by fostering collaboration, mentorship, and partnerships among stakeholders. Mitzi Sabando was also recognized for her instrumental role in bringing the initiative to fruition.

Anchored on the theme “When Women Rise, Regions Thrive,” the summit underscored the critical role of women entrepreneurs in stimulating local economies and creating sustainable growth. Organizers highlighted the importance of equipping women with access to capital, training, and wider markets to help them overcome common business challenges.

Held in line with the celebration of National Women’s Month, the event also served as a platform to promote women’s leadership and empowerment. Participants were encouraged to actively contribute to shaping WEERA into a long-term movement that champions inclusive growth and lasting regional impact.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)