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JAKARTA – Several Asian nations have declared states of energy emergency as disruptions to supply chains coincide with ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Philippines, Bangladesh, and South Korea are each facing distinct challenges as a result of the escalating situation.
The Philippines took swift action, with President Ferdinand Marcos announcing a national state of energy emergency on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The move comes amid increasing risks to fuel supplies and overall energy stability.
“A national state of emergency is hereby proclaimed considering the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, as well as the dangers it poses to the availability and stability of the country’s energy supply,” read an executive order released Tuesday evening, according to the Associated Press.
The order authorizes the Department of Energy to pay up to 15 percent in advance to secure fuel contracts. The government is also targeting price gouging and hoarding practices.
A 20 billion peso emergency fund – approximately $333 million USD or 5.61 billion Indonesian Rupiah – has been allocated. These funds will be used to purchase up to 2 million barrels of fuel, including refined oil products and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
The Philippines’ heavy reliance on imports is a key concern. Nearly all of the country’s crude oil originates in the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia being a primary supplier. President Marcos indicated the nation’s oil reserves currently cover around 45 days of consumption. The declaration underscores the Philippines’ vulnerability to geopolitical instability in the region.
Bangladesh is experiencing a different, but equally concerning, situation. A fuel oil crisis has led to long queues at gas stations across the country, with reports of disruption in multiple areas.
Supply is failing to retain pace with surging demand, according to the country’s fuel station owners association, which has expressed serious concerns about potential operational shutdowns if the situation does not improve.
“The daily supply is clearly inadequate compared to the existing demand,” the association stated on Thursday, March 26, 2026, as reported by The Economic Times.
The long lines are having a widespread impact, with millions of motorcycle users forced to wait for hours. Citizens are reporting fatigue and frustration, and gas station workers are facing immense pressure, including the potential for conflict with customers.
The situation is being described as critical, with growing security risks threatening the operation of gas stations. The association also criticized the government, citing insecure distribution, weak oversight, and a lack of on-the-ground response.
“This situation reflects extreme mismanagement and irresponsibility,” the association wrote.
