Bongao, Tawi-Tawi declares state of emergency over fuel shortage

The municipality of Bongao in Tawi-Tawi has declared a State of Local Emergency due to fuel supply shortage.

In Executive Order No. 22 signed by Mayor Jasper Que, it was stated that Bongao is "currently experiencing a critical shortage of fuel (diesel and gasoline) due to the unavailability of supply sources."

The order said this resulted in disruptions to transportation, fishing operations, delivery of basic goods, and the continuous provision of essential government services.

"The continuing shortage poses a serious threat to public welfare, economic stability, and the delivery of essential services, with the most vulnerable sectors, particularly small-scale fisherfolk, daily wage earners, and transport operators, bearing the brunt of this crisis," the order said.

The emergency declaration authorizes the use of local calamity funds and the urgent implementation of disaster response measures.

"The local government unit shall undertake all necessary actions to manage and respond to the situation in accordance with applicable laws and regulations," the order said.

The country has been hounded by the incessant spike in prices of fuel products as a result of the US-Iran conflict, which disrupted the movement of commodities, including oil. —LDF, GMA News