Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso has ordered a 50% reduction in fuel use across the city government in response to supply and price disruptions from the US-Iran conflict in the Middle East. This comes as oil prices are set to rise in the Philippines next week. The measures aim to safeguard public funds and essential services.
On March 2, 2026, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso signed Executive Order No. 7, Series of 2026, instituting emergency measures on fuel consumption within the city government. In a video announcement, he stated, “Ngayong pong umagang ito ay nilagdaan ko ang Executive Order No. 7, Series of 2026…order instituting emergency measures on fuel consumption in the city government of Manila in response to global fuel supply and price disruptions arising from the war in the Middle East and providing for its implementation, monitoring, and sanctions.”
The order prohibits all non-essential travel by city officials and staff and halts the use of city-owned vehicles for personal purposes. It covers all motor vehicles, generators, and heavy equipment owned or operated by the city government. Coordination with Manila's 896 barangays and satellite offices must shift to online platforms to reduce vehicle mileage. Additionally, public school graduations are to be held within their respective campuses to avoid extra travel costs for parents.
All city bureaus and departments, except LGU-run hospitals and emergency facilities, must implement electricity-saving measures, including a mandatory 5 p.m. power shutoff. Exemptions apply to critical services such as police and fire response, health operations, disaster management, garbage collection, and traffic management. Violations may result in administrative sanctions and loss of privileges under civil service rules, Domagoso said.
The order will remain in force until the mayor determines that emergency fuel conditions have stabilized or until further modified or revoked. It also provides for coordination with the Department of Energy and other national agencies to align Manila's measures with broader government standards.
Meanwhile, the US-Iran conflict escalated with joint US-Israel military strikes on February 28, 2026, killing Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, followed by Iranian retaliatory attacks and suspended transit in the Strait of Hormuz, which handles 20% of global oil flows. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said, “The price will really go up. I will not sugarcoat.” The DOE is monitoring supplies and held an emergency meeting with oil companies on March 2 to ensure 30-day minimum stocks. As a result, fuel prices will increase starting March 3: gasoline by P1.90 per liter, diesel by P1.20, and kerosene by P1.50. One Filipino casualty has been reported: a 32-year-old caregiver killed in airstrikes on Israel.
