The fuel supply in Western Visayas remains “stable,” but local authorities are calling for heightened energy conservation as global price pressures continue to affect the region.
Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. led the Provincial Community Defense Cluster meeting on Friday, March 27, to review the region’s fuel situation.
The session, held in coordination with the Office of the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PGENRO), brought together key officials including Atty. Cesar Emmanuelle Buyco, Jr., Rey Victor Garin, Cornelio R. Salinas of the PDRRMO, and Dr. Alfonso Baldonado III.
Energy updates were presented by Engr. Jose Rey Maleza of the Department of Energy-Visayas Field Office (DOE FVO), showing that as of March 20, inventory levels remain above mandated requirements: 53.14 days for gasoline, 45.82 days for diesel, 61.49 days for fuel oil, and 23.51 days for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Despite the ample supply, the meeting highlighted challenges such as the need to enhance energy efficiency, prioritize fuel for critical sectors, and address the economic impact of rising prices.
The DOE also proposed strategies to sustain supply security while mitigating financial pressures on consumers and businesses.
Defensor stressed that continuous inter-agency coordination is vital to maintain uninterrupted fuel availability while promoting responsible energy use throughout Western Visayas.
The briefing signaled both confidence in supply stability and caution for prudent fuel management as global uncertainties continue to ripple through the local economy.IMT
