Philippines Seeks US Approval to Boost Russian Oil Purchases Amid Fuel Crisis
Published on Reflecto News | World News | Energy Security & Economy
The Philippines has formally requested that the United States extend or expand its waiver on Russian oil sanctions, as the import-dependent nation scrambles to address a crippling fuel shortage triggered by the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz .
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin announced the diplomatic move on Tuesday, revealing that Manila has officially communicated with Washington through the Department of Foreign Affairs to secure “another window or extension of the lifting of the embargo” on Russian petroleum products .
The request follows a 30-day waiver issued by the U.S. last month, which allowed countries to purchase Russian oil that was already at sea until April 11 . This temporary measure was designed to stabilize global energy markets after the outbreak of the US-Israeli war on Iran effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global crude trade .
‘A Prolonged Problem’
The Philippines is among the Asian nations hardest hit by the ongoing conflict. Nearly 30 percent of the country’s crude imports must pass through the Strait of Hormuz, while the remainder of its fuel needs are sourced from Asian refiners that also depend heavily on Middle East crude .
“The Department of Energy sees this current problem as not only a problem for today or next week or next month. It will be a prolonged problem.” — Sharon Garin, Philippine Energy Secretary
Since the war began on February 28, the country’s sole oil refinery has seen at least 4 million barrels in shipments cancelled . Although it successfully secured nearly 2.5 million barrels last month, the supply remains precarious.
The supply crunch has already resulted in local pump prices for key products like diesel doubling . President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a “state of national energy emergency” on March 24, warning of an “imminent danger” to the nation’s energy supply .
Diversification Strategy
While Manila remains optimistic about securing an extension, it is actively pursuing alternative suppliers to avoid future dependence on a single source.
Alternative Sources Under Consideration:
- Colombia
- United States
- Canada
- Brunei
- India
“We wanted to open the Russian window but we want more options. We need diversification so that we are not dependent on only one country.” — Sharon Garin, Philippine Energy Secretary
Garin noted that even if the alternative sources supply different types of crude, “we can still use their refined products” .
As of April 10, the country’s fuel inventory stands at approximately 50.31 days, with gasoline at 54 days, diesel at 48 days, and LPG at 36 days . The Department of Energy is monitoring the situation on a weekly basis, including in-country stocks, in-transit deliveries, and incoming orders .
Washington has not yet responded to Manila’s request, but Garin expressed confidence that “we’re very positive in getting this other window” .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why does the Philippines need to buy more Russian oil?
The Philippines relies on imports for approximately 30% of its crude oil needs, which must pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The effective closure of this vital waterway due to the US-Israeli war on Iran has severely disrupted supply chains and caused local fuel prices to double .
2. What is the current status of the US sanctions waiver?
The US issued a 30-day waiver allowing the purchase of Russian oil that was already at sea, which expired on April 11. The Philippines is requesting an extension or a new window to continue these purchases .
3. How long can the Philippines sustain its current fuel supply?
As of April 10, the country has about 50 days of fuel inventory (54 days for gasoline, 48 for diesel, 36 for LPG). The Energy Department is replenishing stocks on a rolling basis .
4. Is the Philippines the only country making this request?
No. India and other Asian nations are also lobbying Washington for extended sanctions relief on both Russian oil and Iranian crude as the energy crisis deepens across the region .
5. What alternative sources is the Philippines considering?
Manila is exploring supplies from Colombia, the United States, Canada, Brunei, and India to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce dependence on any single nation .
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