The Department of Energy (DOE) reported overall increases in fuel prices this week, even as the country’s supply remained stable at around 53 days of inventory.

Gasoline prices are set to increase by PHP 2.21 per liter, while diesel will rise by PHP 2.66 per liter. Kerosene, meanwhile, will see a rollback of PHP 3.53 per liter.

Despite the upward adjustments, the DOE said price movements are largely driven by global factors.

“The source of the numbers that we have is based on international prices which is not within the control of our country or even our industry players,” said DOE Secretary Sharon S. Garin.

The agency cited higher global oil prices, increased freight and insurance costs, and a weaker peso exchange rate as key drivers of the adjustments.

At the same time, the DOE maintained that fuel supply remains sufficient. As of May 1, total inventory stood at 53.71 days, with gasoline at 52.64 days and diesel at 54.58 days.

“So there is enough time for us to procure more when we need more,” Garin said, noting that supply levels indicate steady demand and no issues with fuel deliveries.

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), commonly used by households, will also see an increase of PHP 1.22 per kilogram, equivalent to PHP 13.42 for an 11-kilogram cylinder.

“This is still big, but it’s substantially lower than the previous adjustments, around 300 pesos,” said Energy Undersecretary Mario Marasigan.

DOE officials added that while they set a cap on price adjustments, companies may implement lower prices or even rollbacks depending on their supply conditions.

To help mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs, the DOE is continuing the rollout of a PHP 10 per liter fuel discount program for public utility vehicles (PUJs) and UV Express units.

The program allows drivers to avail of discounts for up to 150 liters per week, and is currently available in 4,278 gas stations nationwide. It is limited to diesel, with no expansion to gasoline for now as the system continues to be rolled out.

Beyond fuel prices, the DOE said it continues to monitor power supply conditions, noting that peak demand has yet to be reached and that sufficient reserves remain available across the grid.

With fuel prices continuing to fluctuate, how much more pressure can consumers expect in the coming weeks?

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