Gov't secures 21,000 metric tons of US-sourced LPG to boost fuel supply

MANILA, Philippines, April 27 ------ The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine National Oil Company (PNOC) have secured 21,000 metric tons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sourced from the United States to shore up supply stability amid global market volatility and tensions in the Middle East.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, April 25, the DOE said the shipment forms part of government efforts to ensure a stable and reliable supply of LPG for households and businesses as global energy conditions remain uncertain. "The incoming shipment, scheduled for delivery from May 20 to 31 and to be discharged in Batangas, will boost the country’s LPG inventory and strengthen supply buffers for households and businesses," the agency said.

The DOE said it is coordinating closely with government agencies and industry stakeholders "to safeguard energy security, maintain supply stability, and protect the welfare of Filipino consumers who rely on LPG for daily needs." The procurement comes days after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved a three-month suspension of excise taxes on LPG and kerosene.

Under Executive Order No. 114 signed on April 16, excise taxes on LPG and kerosene were temporarily suspended for three months, subject to monthly review based on global oil price movements. Malacañang said the measure is expected to reduce LPG prices by about P3.36 per kilogram, or roughly P37 per 11-kilogram cylinder, as part of efforts to provide immediate relief to households.

Source: philstar.com