The Philippines is implementing drastic energy-saving measures as global fuel costs surge due to Middle East tensions. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered government offices to set air conditioners to a minimum of 24 degrees Celsius (75°F) and adopt flexible work arrangements. He is also exploring a four-day work week and seeking emergency authority to slash petroleum taxes. These steps aim to conserve fuel amid the nation's near-total oil import dependence. Vice President Sara Duterte urged supporters to avoid fuel-consuming motorcades during protests. The Manila city government is cutting fuel use by shifting meetings online and banning non-essential travel. Economists warn the Philippines is highly vulnerable to inflation from the conflict, as retail fuel prices are market-driven with limited subsidies. Some agencies plan fuel subsidies for fisherfolk, farmers, and public transport drivers. An app allows citizens to lock in energy prices. Rowena Brucal, managing a school cafeteria, reduced food portions and turned off lights to save costs. However, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry warns the four-day work week could significantly impact the manufacturing sector, a key economic pillar.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is driving these measures to combat soaring energy costs, which threaten to exacerbate inflation hitting a 13-month high in February. The nation's vulnerability stems from its heavy reliance on imported oil and limited subsidy structures. The 24-degree Celsius air-con limit for government buildings is a direct response to the crisis, alongside flexible work policies. Vice President Sara Duterte has also targeted protest-related fuel use, while Manila's city government is implementing operational cuts. Deepali Bhargava of ING Bank NV highlights the nation's heightened inflation risk due to market-driven fuel prices. Citizens like Tim Gonzales, using a price-locking app, are mitigating costs, though Rowena Brucal's cafeteria is reducing portions and energy use. The proposed work week reduction faces pushback from the business community.

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry cautions that a shorter work week could severely disrupt manufacturing, a vital economic sector. President Perry Ferrer emphasized commitments could be affected by further operational reductions. While energy conservation is critical, balancing economic stability with these measures remains a challenge. The government's multi-pronged approach, including subsidies and price apps, seeks to shield vulnerable groups while managing national energy security amidst geopolitical volatility.