Soaring gasoline prices in the Philippines have forced many Catholics to abandon the traditional Holy Week pilgrimage to seven churches, Visita Iglesia. Fuel costs have roughly doubled since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in late February, pushing prices above $5 per gallon. This financial strain is evident as travelers line up for fuel and some businesses see dramatic drops in customers. The cost of a tank of gas now exceeds $60, compared to $25 in a typical year, making the journey unaffordable for many families like the Quilas, who postponed their trip until March. Business at restaurants in destinations like Baguio has plummeted by about 80 percent compared to last year as budgets tighten and people choose to stay home.

The government declared a national energy emergency, urging carpooling and a four-day workweek for offices.