Isko orders 50% fuel cut for Manila LGU amid US-Iran crisis

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MANILA, Philippines —Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso has ordered a 50% reduction in fuel consumption across the city government in response to global supply and price disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

In a video announcement Monday, March 2, Domagoso said he signed Executive Order No. 7, Series of 2026, instituting emergency measures on fuel use within the Manila local government unit.

“Ngayong pong umagang ito ay nilagdaan ko ang Executive Order No. 7, Series of 2026 (This morning, I issued Executive Order No. 7, Series of 2026.)…order instituting emergency measures on fuel consumption in the city government of Manila in response to global fuel supply and price disruptions arising from the war in the Middle East and providing for its implementation, monitoring, and sanctions,” Domagoso said.

The order prohibits all non-essential travel by city officials and staff and halts the use of city-owned vehicles for personal purposes.

It covers all motor vehicles, generators and heavy equipment owned or operated by the city government.

Coordination with Manila's 896 barangays and satellite offices must shift to online platforms to reduce vehicle mileage.

Domagoso also directed that public school graduations be held within their respective campuses to spare parents from additional travel costs.

Measures and sanctions

All city bureaus and departments, except LGU-run hospitals and emergency facilities, must implement electricity-saving measures, including a mandatory 5 p.m. power shutoff.

Exemptions remain for critical services such as police and fire response, health operations, disaster management, garbage collection and traffic management.

Violations may result in administrative sanctions and loss of privileges under civil service rules, Domagoso said.

The order also provides for coordination with the Department of Energy and other national agencies to align Manila's measures with broader government standards.

"This order shall remain in full force until the city mayor determines the emergency fuel conditions have stabilized or until further modified or revoked," Domagoso said.

Global to local

Domagoso said that while the conflict is geographically distant, disruptions affecting about 20% of global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz pose risks to the city's fiscal stability and the national economy.

"The city government of Manila must act to protect public funds, maintain essential public services, and reduce exposure to fuel supply and price shocks by instituting immediate fuel conservation measures," he said.

The Department of Energy has said oil prices are expected to rise amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route connecting major Gulf oil producers to global markets.