DOE permits ‘dirtier’ fuel imports under strict limits amid oil crisis

National

IN WHAT was described as a "prudent and temporary" measure, the Department of Energy (DOE) has authorized the controlled importation of Euro 2 fuels, which emit higher pollutants than the country’s current Euro 4 standard.

The move comes as the Philippines faces fuel supply pressures linked to global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, where most of the country’s oil imports originate.

The DOE emphasized that the policy is only an interim solution and will be implemented under strict conditions.

“We are adopting a prudent and temporary measure to help ensure an adequate and accessible fuel supply for sectors that may require limited flexibility during this period,” Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said in a Philstar report.

Euro 2 fuel use will be limited to older vehicles, traditional jeepneys, and certain industrial and marine sectors.

Despite environmental concerns, the agency stressed that existing clean air regulations remain unchanged, and the use of cleaner Euro 4 fuel continues to be the national standard.

“This interim authority is subject to strict quality controls, clear notification requirements and appropriate consumer protection measures,” Garin added.

Oil firms are required to strictly segregate fuel types and disclose where Euro 2 products will be sold. The DOE also warned of penalties for violations, with regular monitoring and product testing in place.

Meanwhile, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government is exploring alternative oil sources from countries such as India, Japan, and South Korea, while rolling out fuel subsidies and expanding energy capacity to cushion the impact of the crisis.

“We are talking to our trade partners like India… and are reaching out to other countries for possible oil supply arrangements,” Marcos said.(Zsarrhied Samantha A. Tanjay, CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)