Philippines

The Senate's probe into the government's response to the Middle East crisis is targeting oil companies for potential profiteering as fuel prices rise sharply. Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian voiced concerns over firms selling old fuel stocks at elevated prices. Sen. Bam Aquino called for a price freeze on essential goods.

March 27, 2026 An Ruwaito ta hanyar AI

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippines will push through with hosting the ASEAN summits in May and November 2026 on a ‘very bare-bones’ scale, focusing on energy and food security as well as migrant workers amid the Middle East conflict.

Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian vowed on Wednesday that all eligible public utility vehicle drivers will receive government cash relief assistance, as the Dswd meets with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to address gaps in beneficiary lists.

March 26, 2026 An Ruwaito ta hanyar AI

Major Philippine mall chains including SM, Robinsons, Ayala, and Megaworld announced shorter operating hours starting March 30 in response to the country's National Energy Emergency.