Eastern Visayas Hit by Fuel Hikes; Sen. Escudero Urges Action

Posted on Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:17 am

TACLOBAN CITY — Amid the increasing global fuel prices and ongoing uncertainty in the international oil supply, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is calling for stronger regional cooperation that could directly benefit fuel-dependent regions like Eastern Visayas.

As the Philippines assumes the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year, Escudero, in a press statement on March 24, stressed that the upcoming summit presents a crucial opportunity to advance the proposed ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement (APSA), a mechanism aimed at assisting member states in times of fuel shortages.

For Eastern Visayas, where provinces such as Leyte, Samar, and Eastern Samar heavily rely on fuel shipments for transportation, fishing, and power generation, any disruption in petroleum supply can have immediate economic repercussions. Increased fuel costs often lead to higher prices of essential goods and transportation fares, impacting both urban centers like Tacloban City and remote island communities.

Escudero explained that APSA would be activated when a member country experiences a minimum 10 percent shortfall in its petroleum supply. Through this framework, neighboring ASEAN nations could provide emergency fuel assistance, helping stabilize supply and mitigate economic shocks.

The senator highlighted that the agreement takes inspiration from the fuel-sharing system of the International Energy Agency, which coordinates similar responses among its member countries.

“The current instability in the Middle East underscores the need for regional action, as oil prices surge and supply chains become vulnerable. We must act as a unified ASEAN,” Escudero remarked.

He emphasized that oil-producing countries like Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and Malaysia would play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the agreement, particularly in delivering emergency fuel supplies when required.

For Eastern Visayas, which is continuously enhancing its economic recovery and resilience against natural calamities, such regional collaboration could serve as a vital safety net.

“Fuel-sharing goes beyond just oil barrels. It embodies trust, reciprocity, and the assurance that no member state will be left behind,” Escudero stressed.

He added that the Philippines’ leadership in ASEAN this year presents both a duty and an opportunity to advocate for energy resilience throughout the region.

“This is our moment to guide ASEAN towards energy resilience. Through collective efforts, we can shield our region from external shocks and truly embody the theme of this year’s summit, ‘Navigating Our Future, Together,’ with solidarity and shared purpose,” he concluded.

(Photo by: Senate of the Philippines)