Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said the Philippines is pursuing long-term solutions to strengthen energy resilience amid ongoing global supply uncertainties and tensions in the Middle East. During an interview with Japanese media on Monday, Marcos stressed the need to institutionalize energy security measures and strengthen regional cooperation to ensure stable fuel and power supply in Asia. He said the recent developments in the Middle East exposed the vulnerability of global supply chains and emphasized the importance of preparing for future disruptions.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos highlighted the necessity of working with ASEAN member-states and partners such as Japan to explore alternative fuel resources, improve supply chain reliability, and enhance regional energy reserves. He also cited ongoing efforts within ASEAN to carry out initiatives aimed at boosting energy resilience across the region, including efforts to establish a stronger regional power grid and oil reserve system.

Marcos stated that discussions with Japan would include supply procurement, supply chain maintenance, crude oil stockpiling, and mechanisms to make energy delivery systems more secure and reliable. Japan's proposed USD10 billion assistance package for energy and resource resilience would also be part of the discussion during his visit to Tokyo.

Furthermore, Marcos reiterated the Philippines' long-term goal of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and accelerating the transition toward renewable energy resources. He acknowledged that the country had temporarily turned to coal-fired power generation due to fuel supply constraints but stressed that renewable energy remains the long-term direction for the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific region.