Long lines are seen at gas stations ahead of the expected surge in fuel prices (GMA photo) Fuel prices in the Philippines are expected to surge to unprecedented levels starting next week, as global oil prices react to continued tensions in the Middle East. This has prompted President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to order all government offices, except those providing emergency services, to start a four-day workweek starting Monday, March 9. The Department of Energy (DoE) said it expects a minimum increase of Php19 per liter for diesel, which fuels most public transportation vehicles in the country, including jeepneys and buses. The resulting price of at least Php90 per liter for diesel has prompted some jeepney drivers to say they might stay off the streets as they will lose money without a corresponding fare increase, despite the fuel subsidy they are getting from the government. Gasoline pump prices are also expected to rise by at least Php9 a liter, while kerosene prices will surge by a minimum of Php31 a liter. The DoE said the country has enough supply to last from 50 to 60 days but if the conflict holds, shortages could occur. But it warned that any price hike should take effect only from Tuesday, March 10, or one week since the last increase. The government agency has asked help from the police in monitoring any unauthorized increase at gas pumps across the country until then. Police help ensure gas stations do not increase fuel prices until Tuesday In response to the looming crisis, the government has started looking for other oil suppliers, including Canada, the United States, South America and Africa, as most of the country’s supply now comes from the Middle East. President Marcos has also ordered government offices to implement energy-saving measures, such as setting air conditioners to 24°C, while appealing to the public to reduce non-essential travel. Ahead of the feared fuel price increase, Philippine stock prices fell while the peso weakened to the 59 to US$1 level. However, this is still stronger than the peso’s record low of 59.46 to the greenback posted on Jan. 15. With no relief in sight, Filipinos are bracing for other adverse knock-on effects like a significant rise in inflation, along with transport costs and prices of basic commodities.