The Philippines has declared a national energy emergency due to the global oil supply crisis, which has been triggered by the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States. In a statement, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that the move is a precautionary measure to cope with the potential energy crisis and shortage of fuel in the country.
According to Arab Media, President Marcos said that the decision was made in response to the energy crisis and possible fuel shortage that may arise from the conflict between the US and Israel and Iran. The emergency will be in effect for one year, and the government has announced measures to ensure the availability and delivery of essential commodities, including fuel, food, and medicine.
The government has also given authorities the power to conduct emergency measures, such as immediate purchase of fuel, advance payment, and stockpiling, to mitigate the effects of the crisis. In addition, public transportation workers, motorcycle drivers, and taxi drivers will receive a one-time financial assistance of PHP 5,000 (approximately USD 100).
Meanwhile, experts have warned of the possibility of a severe storm, strong winds, and dust storms in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region, which may further exacerbate the energy crisis. The conflict has already caused widespread destruction in Tel Aviv, with several buildings destroyed, and sirens sounded in northern Israel.
In neighboring countries, including India, gas and petroleum shortages have been reported, affecting the poor population. According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the conflict has escalated beyond control, and the world is facing the threat of a global war.
The Iranian Foreign Minister has condemned the US proposals, saying that they have been rejected by Iran. In a statement, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said that the country has reviewed the US proposals and found them to be unacceptable.
China’s state-owned shipping company, Cosco, has resumed shipping services to some Gulf countries after a three-week hiatus. In a statement, the Iranian Defense Minister said that any US warship entering the Iranian missile range will be targeted.
The Iranian President, Ebrahim Raisi, has praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his clear stance against Zionist aggression. The Iraqi Prime Minister has summoned the US Ambassador to discuss the issue of military units being attacked.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry has announced that the country has reviewed the US proposals and found them to be unacceptable. In a statement, the Iranian President, Ebrahim Raisi, said that Tehran is closely monitoring US activities in the region, particularly military deployments.
In related news, the Philippine government has taken measures to mitigate the impact of the oil price hike on the public. The Department of Finance has announced a package of measures to cushion the effects of the oil price hike on the public.
In a separate development, health experts have warned that shoulder pain should not be ignored, as it may be an early sign of liver cancer. While a mild, persistent ache in the shoulder may be common, experts say that it can sometimes be a hidden sign of cancer.
