MANILA, Philippines — In his latest address to the nation, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made a strong appeal for unity and discipline as the Philippines navigates a State of National Energy Emergency triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In a vlog released on Sunday, April 12, 2026, the President condemned recent acts of “selfishness” and warned that those exploiting the crisis through hoarding, profiteering, or theft would face the full force of the law.
The President framed the current struggle as an opportunity for Filipinos to demonstrate their inherent sense of community.
- The Spirit of Bayanihan: Marcos urged citizens to look out for one another, citing the establishment of grassroots initiatives like community pantries and feeding programs as examples of “modern-day heroism.”
- Corporate Responsibility: He acknowledged large corporations that have pivoted their operations to support relief efforts and assist the most vulnerable sectors, particularly transport workers.
- Social Discipline: “This is the time to show and live out your being Filipino,” Marcos said. “In times of hardship, our sense of compassion for others must prevail.”
The President did not mince words when addressing those taking advantage of the energy crunch.
- Fuel Theft: Marcos described incidents of motorists refueling and fleeing without payment as “infuriating” and “saddening.”
- Illegal Storage: He highlighted a dangerous case where an oil tanker was caught discharging fuel into a residential storage tank, warning that such acts put entire neighborhoods at risk of fire and explosions.
- Legitimate Use Only: The President clarified that while businesses with legitimate operational needs may store fuel, hoarding for the purpose of price manipulation or panic-buying is strictly prohibited.
A significant portion of the President’s warning was directed at the spread of disinformation designed to cause panic.
- Fake News Warning: Malacañang and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) have debunked viral posts claiming a nationwide “energy lockdown” or “grid shutdown.”
- Criminal Prosecution: The government has already begun filing criminal charges against social media pages spreading fabricated graphics. Acting PCO Secretary Dave Gomez stated that deliberate disinformation during a national emergency is being treated as a criminal matter, not just a communications issue.
Despite the stern warnings, the President assured the public that relief is on the way.
- Fuel Price Rollback: The announcement coincides with a massive P20.89 per liter rollback for diesel scheduled for Tuesday, April 14.
- Commuter Discounts: A 20 percent fare discount for all commuters is set to begin on April 15.
- Excise Tax Decision: The President is expected to announce his decision on the suspension or reduction of fuel excise taxes today, April 13, leveraging his newly effective emergency powers under Republic Act No. 12316.
The Department of Energy (DOE) continues to monitor nearly 100 establishments issued with “show-cause” orders for suspected profiteering, as the administration balances fiscal stability with immediate public relief.