The Philippines is engaging with the US government to obtain necessary waivers allowing oil imports from countries under US sanctions to stabilize its energy supply amid Middle East tensions.
The Philippine government is actively coordinating with Washington to secure exemptions that would permit the country to import oil from nations currently under US sanctions, a move aimed at ensuring steady fuel supplies. Jose Manuel Romualdez, the Philippine ambassador to the United States, confirmed ongoing discussions with the US State Department to obtain these waivers. Although specific countries were not confirmed, all options, including Venezuela and Iran, are under consideration. This effort responds to a national energy emergency declared by the Philippines due to the impacts of the Middle East conflict on oil procurement. The emergency declaration, effective for one year, empowers the government to purchase fuel and petroleum products promptly to maintain adequate supply levels. As of March 20, the Philippines reportedly holds about 45 days’ worth of fuel reserves and plans to procure an additional one million barrels to enhance its buffer stock. The country has temporarily increased coal-fired energy generation to mitigate supply pressures. Recently, the US granted a 30-day waiver allowing the Philippines to receive Russian crude oil imports, marking a resumption after a five-year hiatus. Similarly, a US waiver authorized purchase of Iranian oil already at sea under specific conditions. These waivers reflect ongoing adjustments in US policy aimed at balancing sanctions enforcement with the energy needs of its allies like the Philippines.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/981291/philippines-us-oil-waivers-emergency/story/