Manila: The country's fuel inventory could extend beyond the current 50-day level to more than two months as additional orders are secured, although long-term supply remains uncertain, the Department of Energy (DOE) said. The update was discussed during a Senate Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee hearing on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin reported that the Philippines has approximately 50.31 days of fuel inventory as of April 10, with gasoline at 54 days, diesel at 48 days, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at 36 days. She mentioned that existing orders could potentially extend the country's supply buffer. "Monitoring all the contracts and their orders, on top of the 50 days, there's an order for 14 days na no issue. And then ang may issue is three days, Mr. Chair," Garin told panel chair, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian.

Gatchalian noted that the additional orders effectively extend the country's inventory to around 64 days. He inquired about the forecasting and the certainty of firm contracts and confirmed deliveries beyond the 50 days. Garin explained that fuel supply operates on a rolling basis, with oil companies continuously replenishing stocks as they are consumed. "It doesn't move because we replenish what we consume. 50 days actually is more of an indication of how much time we have to find replenishment," she said.

Garin also mentioned that there are currently no major disruptions in supply contracts. "So far, ang orders with issues. very minimal lang siya. as of today. there seems to be enough supply as long as you're willing to pay the price," Garin said. However, she noted that suppliers are unable to provide long-term guarantees due to global uncertainties. "I don't think even the suppliers or our oil companies can assure that long of a contract. at this time," she said.

Gatchalian urged continued high-level negotiations, including government-to-government deals, to secure additional supply beyond current inventory levels. Garin assured that DOE continues to monitor in-country stocks, in-transit deliveries, and incoming orders on a weekly basis to ensure steady supply amid ongoing global disruptions.