Davao City Motorists Confront Soaring Fuel Costs as Global Oil Prices Spike
Motorists in Davao City are feeling the immediate impact of recent fuel price increases, with many lining up at gasoline stations in anticipation of further adjustments. On Sunday morning, March 8, 2026, a rider was seen refueling his ongbak at a station along Ponciano Street, highlighting the urgency as oil companies implement gradual hikes over the week.
Historic Price Hikes Announced Amid Geopolitical Unrest
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin has projected that fuel prices could surge by ₱17 to ₱24 per liter this week, with diesel potentially rising around ₱20 per liter and gasoline by roughly ₱10 per liter. These adjustments reflect global market fluctuations fueled by escalating tensions in the Middle East. During a briefing with government agencies, Garin emphasized, "The price now is not the highest in history, but the one coming… that will be implemented tomorrow will be the highest jump." She noted that the Department of Energy cannot regulate prices in the deregulated oil industry.
Livelihoods at Stake for Drivers and Daily Wage Earners
Public transport drivers like Christopher express deep concerns over their ability to sustain their families. "Gasoline is expensive, and income is low. We have nothing left for our families," he said. Many drivers are adapting by slowing down and driving efficiently to conserve fuel, rather than reducing trips. Delivery rider Esperidion Espra added, "Even if the price rises, as long as there’s gasoline, we can still make trips. Without fuel, we’d have to stop working." Private vehicle owners, such as Janelle Arevalo, consider switching to public transport to manage household expenses.
Government Response and Price Control Measures
In response, the Department of Energy is monitoring local retailers and enforcing strict price ceilings from March 6 to 9, 2026. Authorities have warned against hoarding or selling petroleum in unauthorized containers, citing safety risks and market manipulation. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed measures to prevent profiteering, with violations subject to administrative and criminal penalties. The DOE has set the following price ranges for this period:
- Gasoline (RON 97/100): ₱53.70–₱76.50 per liter
- Gasoline (RON 95): ₱50.00–₱71.04
- Gasoline (RON 91): ₱49.00–₱64.70
- Diesel: ₱49.00–₱66.59
- Diesel Plus: ₱56.80–₱74.81
- Kerosene: ₱78.90–₱99.89
DOE field offices, the Philippine National Police, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government will conduct inspections to ensure compliance.
Root Cause: Middle East Tensions Disrupt Global Oil Supply
The surge in fuel prices is directly linked to intensified conflict in the Middle East, following a joint US-Israel operation targeting Iran’s missile program. Iranian leaders were reportedly killed, prompting retaliatory strikes against US bases and facilities that supply 98 percent of the Philippines’ crude oil imports. This geopolitical instability continues to drive volatility in global oil markets, affecting consumers nationwide.
