DBM OKs release of P20-B ‘emergency fund’ to DOE

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Wednesday approved the release of P20 billion to the Department of Energy (DOE) to fund the government’s fuel buffer-stocking initiative, aiming to shield the country from potential supply shortages resulting from the global oil crisis.

In a statement, the DBM said it issued a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) and a Notice of Cash Allocation (NCA) for the P20-billion fund to the Energy Department.

The fund release followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s declaration of a state of national energy emergency due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The DBM stated that the P20-billion funding comes from the Malampaya Gas Fund under the Special Account in the General Fund (SAGF).

According to the Budget Department, the P20-billion intervention will fund the strategic procurement of fuel products—including diesel, gasoline, and LPG—to boost national fuel inventory, stabilize pump prices, and ensure uninterrupted operations across transport, logistics, agriculture, emergency response, and other critical sectors.

The program will be implemented by the Philippine National Oil Company-Exploration Corporation (PNOC-EC), which has already initiated procurement activities to immediately augment domestic supply.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin earlier said the government is setting aside P20 billion to beef up the country’s fuel buffer stock as supply uncertainties due to the ongoing Middle East crisis threaten the country’s energy security. 

“This is about protecting the daily life of every Filipino—from the jeepney driver and delivery rider, to our farmers, frontliners, and ordinary families,” said Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo.

“Under the President’s directive, we are moving with urgency to ensure that fuel remains available, prices are moderated, and essential services continue uninterrupted. This is government acting ahead of the crisis —not reacting after the damage is done,” he added. —VAL, GMA Integrated News