In a statement issued April 13, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations warned that disruptions in one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints could ripple across global markets and destabilize economies, particularly in Asia.

“We call for the restoration of the safe, unimpeded, and continuous transit passage of vessels and aircraft in the Strait of Hormuz… as well as for all parties to ensure the safety of seafarers and ships,” the ministers said.

The 11-nation grouping also pushed for strict compliance with the ceasefire agreed on April 8 between the United States and Iran, stressing the need to prevent further escalation.

“We call for the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire… minimizing disruption to the flow of energy and essential goods, and mitigating its adverse impact on global economic stability,” the statement read.

ASEAN urged all parties to return to negotiations despite the breakdown in talks as of Sunday, warning that continued hostilities threaten both regional and global stability.

“We urge the United States… and the Islamic Republic of Iran to continue negotiations that will lead to the permanent end of the conflict and lasting peace and stability in the region,” it said.

The bloc also called on all sides to “exercise utmost restraint, cease all hostilities, [and] avoid any acts that may aggravate the situation.”

ASEAN is a regional bloc working together on economic, political, and security issues. With a combined population of over 670 million and a roughly $3.6 trillion economy, it is among the world’s largest economic groupings.

The region is highly sensitive to disruptions in global energy supply chains. The Strait of Hormuz—located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman—is a critical chokepoint through which about 20% of the world’s oil and LNG passes.

A large share of that energy is bound for Asia. Estimates suggest nearly 90% of oil shipments through Hormuz head to Asian markets, with Southeast Asian economies heavily reliant on Middle Eastern crude and gas imports.

Any disruption to this route can quickly translate into higher fuel costs, rising food prices, and broader inflation pressures, particularly for energy-importing countries.

The ASEAN statement comes amid a rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East following a two-week ceasefire agreement announced on April 8 involving the United States and Iran, with mediation by Pakistan and indirect involvement of Israel.

While the deal included commitments to pause major attacks and reopen the Strait of Hormuz for safe energy shipments, the truce has proven fragile.

News reports indicate that violations have already occurred on multiple fronts; fighting continues in areas such as Lebanon, where the ceasefire terms remain unclear; and peace negotiations have stalled as of Sunday, raising the risk of renewed escalation.

Analysts describe the situation as a “dangerous pause,” a temporary de-escalation rather than a durable peace.

Against this backdrop, ASEAN underscored the need for diplomacy and adherence to international law.

“We underscore the importance of maintaining regional peace, stability and prosperity… and promoting earnest dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means of addressing conflicts,” the ministers said.

The bloc also reiterated that all states must “resolve their differences through peaceful means,” protect civilians, and respect sovereignty — principles it warned are critical to preventing a wider global crisis.

A policy note by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), authored by Senior Research Fellow Sonny Domingo and colleagues, outlines how CE pathways can reshape waste practices and strengthen environmental governance at both national and local levels.

While existing laws—including the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act—provide a solid foundation, implementation remains uneven. The study cites weak enforcement, unclear institutional mandates, and limited upstream interventions as key constraints.

Stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic, noting recent policy gains but pointing to persistent governance gaps and the need to tailor CE strategies to local conditions. Integrating the IWS and MSMEs into formal waste systems is seen as critical to scaling impact.

The authors stress that CE strategies must go beyond waste disposal, focusing instead on waste reduction and more efficient, sustainable production and consumption patterns.

“Strategies that empower these groups not only enhance implementation capacity but also ensure that social equity is embedded in CE programs,” the authors said, emphasizing the role of community participation in driving behavioral change.

To accelerate CE adoption, the study calls for clearer institutional roles, stronger enforcement of existing laws, and better alignment of national and local policies. It also underscores the importance of embedding social and environmental justice in CE initiatives.

Among the key policies cited are the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, the EPR Act, the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Green Jobs Act.

The EPR Act of 2022 mandates companies to implement waste reduction, collection, and diversion programs, while encouraging upstream measures such as the use of recycled materials and sustainable product design. Meanwhile, the Green Jobs Act provides incentives for businesses engaged in environmentally sustainable activities, including recycling and innovative waste solutions.

The Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB) has approved a temporary work-from-home (WFH) setup of up to 90% of employees for registered business enterprises (RBEs), without affecting the tax perks and incentives they receive.

The move comes after Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a national energy emergency under Executive Order No. 110 on March 24, 2026, following supply disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

“We are extending full support to our investors as we navigate through this energy emergency, so they can remain competitive and keep their operations running smoothly. In line with our promise in the CREATE MORE Act, we are prepared to provide a responsive incentives regime that not only safeguards workers, but supports investors and their businesses,” FIRB Chairperson Frederick D. Go said.

Under the new rules, investment promotion agencies (IPAs) — such as those managing economic zones — can allow companies to shift up to 90% of their workforce to remote work. However, depending on the nature of operations, they may require at least 50% of employees to still report onsite.

The policy is part of the implementing rules of the CREATE MORE Act, which allows temporary adjustments for businesses during emergencies.

While companies are given flexibility, they must still follow strict rules to keep their incentives.

Firms must:

• Inform their zone authority before shifting to WFH
• Submit reports on equipment and assets used outside ecozones
• Provide monthly updates on operations

If companies exceed the allowed WFH limit, they will face penalties, including paying higher taxes on the excess portion.

There are also tighter controls on moving tax-free equipment outside ecozones. Companies must get approval and post a bond to ensure these assets are properly accounted for.

Despite the shift to remote work, companies are required to:

• Keep their current number of employees
• Maintain their export revenues

This ensures that while businesses get flexibility, jobs and economic output are protected.

“Through this temporary measure, we are striking the right balance between flexibility and accountability, ensuring that businesses can continue operating safely and efficiently while upholding fiscal discipline and protecting government revenues,” Secretary Go said.

The temporary WFH arrangement is effective from March 24, 2026 and will remain in place for up to one year, unless the energy emergency is lifted or extended earlier.

Speaking at a Malacañang press briefing, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin stressed that the Philippines is not dependent on any single foreign partner, even as discussions with China remain on the table but unresolved.

The clarification comes amid public and political backlash following reports that the government may revive joint exploration talks with Beijing, raising concerns over sovereignty and energy security in the West Philippine Sea.

Garin said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has already signed eight exploration contracts covering oil, natural gas, and hydrogen, involving a range of international partners.

“So, nandiyan na po iyong mga kontrata na iyan… but most of those are different countries or partners — Australia, UK, Israel, iba’t iba po,” Garin said, emphasizing that the Philippines is not limited to one partner and can work with countries capable of exploration.

She added that while joint exploration with China remains an option, no concrete agreement has been finalized.

“Hindi isang bansa lang ang puwede tayong mag-partner… As of now, hindi pa nasa-submit kung ano iyong mga proposal nila,” she said.

Garin also noted that China continues to honor its supply commitments to the Philippines, ensuring stable energy imports, but clarified that discussions on exploration are separate.

The energy chief highlighted that some projects, such as the Malampaya expansion, are fully Filipino-led.

“Malampaya is purely Filipino… Filipinos can do this,” she said, adding that two of three ongoing drilling activities have been successful so far.

She also said the country is exploring emerging energy sources such as natural hydrogen, with projects involving foreign partners, including a U.S. firm providing technical expertise.

Garin emphasized that working with multiple countries allows the Philippines to strengthen its energy security while gaining access to advanced technologies, even as debates continue over the role China may play in the country’s upstream energy sector.

This was the key message delivered to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, where agroecology was presented not just as an environmental option, but as a concrete economic solution to rising fuel and fertilizer costs.

Ramon S. Uy, Southeast Asia councilor of Slow Food International, told senators that farmers using organic methods are far less exposed to oil price volatility, which directly affects chemical fertilizer production and transport.

“When global oil prices surged in 2006, the cost of a 50-kilogram bag of chemical fertilizer increased from 500 pesos to 2,500 pesos. However, organic farmers were not affected. By producing our own fertilizer from biodegradable waste, we became independent of imported materials. As fertilizer prices rise sharply once again, this lesson becomes even more urgent. Today, the price of chemical fertilizers is 2,600–2,800 pesos per bag; last week, it was 1,900 pesos,” Uy said.

The Senate inquiry, conducted under Senator Kiko Pangilinan’s Proposed Senate Resolution No. 346, is examining how rising energy costs — now aggravated by geopolitical tensions — are impacting farmers and fisherfolk, and whether government support is enough.

Uy cited decades of on-the-ground experience showing how agroecology can cushion farmers from global shocks. Beginning in 2005, his group developed large-scale organic fertilizer production using vermicomposting and bokashi methods — converting biodegradable waste into farm inputs.

The system has since reached a capacity of 200 tons of organic fertilizer monthly, offering a stable and affordable alternative to imported chemical fertilizers.

Through technology-sharing initiatives, these methods have been adopted by more than 10,000 communities nationwide, helping strengthen local food systems while addressing waste management challenges.

With fertilizer prices recently rising by about 35% amid energy market volatility, Uy warned that the country’s reliance on imported agricultural inputs leaves farmers highly vulnerable to global crises such as the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Organic farming, he stressed, provides both sustainability and competitiveness. In Negros, around 20,000 hectares have shifted to organic agriculture, with rice yields reaching up to six tons per hectare — surpassing national averages for conventional farming.

“By turning organic waste into fertilizer, we addressed multiple challenges at once: waste management, high production costs, and farmer vulnerability. Money that would have gone to imported chemicals instead circulated within local communities, supporting livelihoods and healthier food,” Uy added.

Uy urged policymakers to move beyond stopgap subsidies and invest in long-term solutions anchored in agroecology and farmer-led innovation.

“It is time to prepare the country for a future that does not rely on chemicals in agriculture. Agroecology is not a marginal alternative — it is an essential path to food security, farmer dignity, and resilience in the face of global crises,” Uy said.

At the close of the hearing, senators backed the idea of converting waste into organic fertilizer to reduce imports and build domestic capacity.

The proposal aligns with the broader advocacy of Slow Food, which promotes food systems that are “good, clean, and fair” — a model now gaining urgency as war-driven energy shocks ripple through global food supply chains.

Under Customs Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 4-2026, AEOs with Level 1 benefits are no longer required to use electronic customs seals (ECS) for shipments to and from free zones. The policy is designed to make AEO accreditation more attractive to compliant and trusted traders.

The E-TRACC system uses GPS-enabled electronic seals to monitor the real-time inland movement of containerized cargo, helping prevent diversion and tampering. While the system remains in place, the exemption reflects the BOC’s trust in AEO-certified firms with strong compliance records.

CMO 4-2026 amends Section 17 of CMO 9-2020, introducing a new provision that removes the ECS requirement for shipments handled by AEOs that are also registered as Registered Business Enterprises (RBEs) with Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) or other government bodies promoting investments.

The exemption applies to both air and sea cargo.

A corresponding amendment to Section 4.3 of CMO 4-2020, which established the E-TRACC system, reinforces that ECS is no longer required for eligible AEO shipments involving free zones.

Despite the exemption, the BOC clarified that the posting of a General Transportation Surety Bond through the Automated Bonds Management System remains mandatory for transit of containerized goods.

ECS requirements will continue to apply to other cargo movements, including transfers to container yards and freight stations, transit to inland customs facilities and bonded warehouses, exports from free zones to ports, and shipments subject to further verification.

The AEO Program grants accredited traders streamlined procedures, faster clearance, and reduced logistics costs, while enabling mutual recognition with other customs administrations.

To encourage wider participation, the BOC earlier released its “AEO Operational Guidelines,” outlining accreditation processes, categories, and benefits.

AEO accreditation is structured into three levels. Level 1 operators enjoy privileges such as exemption from accreditation renewal, self-assessment, supplementary goods declarations, and access to a dedicated help desk. Level 2 members benefit from dedicated lanes, advance clearance, and expedited export processing, while Level 3 members receive additional incentives as determined by the Customs Commissioner.

CMO 4-2026 takes effect 15 days after its issuance on April 7, 2026.

San Miguel Aerocity Inc. (SMAI), the project proponent, was invited to present NMIA before export credit agencies, commercial and development banks, development finance institutions, and environmental and social advisory firms from across the OECD’s 38 member countries.

The project was featured as a plenary case study, highlighting its alignment with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards and the Equator Principles—frameworks widely used by global lenders in evaluating large-scale infrastructure projects. SMAI presented alongside Atradius Dutch State Business (DSB), the project’s export credit insurer, and Earth Active, one of its independent environmental and social consultants.

SMAI said the presentation underscored NMIA’s transition from local regulatory compliance to internationally aligned environmental and social frameworks. This includes strengthened internal management systems and the implementation of biodiversity protection and social risk mitigation measures for the project’s complex coastal site, which includes critical habitats.

Participants viewed NMIA as a credible and transparent example of infrastructure development under challenging environmental and social conditions. They also cited the company’s openness in addressing early-stage challenges, its capacity-building efforts, and its adaptive management approach—particularly in biodiversity offsets and social performance.

The project was also discussed as a practical reference for lender decision-making in emerging markets, demonstrating how collaboration between project sponsors and financiers can address gaps and enhance environmental and social performance over time.

“The NMIA project is a clear example of how cooperation among financial institutions and consultants can support developers in achieving compliance with international standards. We carefully evaluated the project and decided to support it. The results show that the effort was worthwhile,” said Marije Hensen of Atradius Dutch State Business, the Dutch export credit agency.

SMAI added that flooding risks, land stability, and environmental safeguards have been central considerations in NMIA’s technical and environmental reviews from the outset. These continue to be addressed through ongoing assessment, mitigation planning, and oversight under both Philippine regulations and international lender standards.

Founded in 1961, the Paris-based Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has played a key role in shaping global policies on corporate governance, sustainability, and responsible business conduct, with many of its frameworks adopted beyond member countries.

SMAI said its participation in the workshop reflects its continued engagement with the international project finance and environmental and social community, reinforcing its position as a Philippine infrastructure developer capable of operating within OECD, export credit agency, and global lender governance frameworks.

In a joint letter to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg dated April 10, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) warned that the unchecked spread of such panic-inducing falsehoods could trigger legal consequences.

The Palace said the incident — featuring fabricated posts and fake medical bulletins about the President — highlighted the dangerous speed and scale of disinformation on Meta’s platforms.

“To ensure timely implementation, Meta is required to confirm receipt of this letter within 48 hours and to provide a detailed implementation plan of the measures outlined within seven calendar days from receipt of this letter,” stated the joint letter dated April 10, signed by DICT Secretary Henry Aguda and PCO Acting Secretary Dave Gomez.

“Failure to take prompt and sufficient action shall constrain the Philippine Government to consider appropriate regulatory and legal measures, in coordination with the National Telecommunications Commission, Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and the Department of Justice, consistent with applicable laws and the State’s duty to protect public order and national security,” the letter added.

Authorities said the Marcos “death” hoax falls squarely under a broader pattern of harmful content still circulating online, including “fabricated medical status documents or announcements falsely alleging illness, incapacity, or death of senior government officials.”

The government stressed that such false narratives — especially when amplified on platforms like Facebook — can trigger public panic, distort markets, and erode trust in institutions.

The warning comes amid heightened economic anxiety driven by the ongoing global oil crisis.

“Rising fuel costs and increasing prices of essential goods have materially heightened public sensitivity to information related to economic stability and government response,” the DICT and PCO letter noted.

“In this environment, the rapid proliferation of false, misleading, and panic- inducing content — particularly those relating to oil prices, economic disruptions, and government actions — poses a direct and escalating threat to public order, economic confidence, and national security,” they said.

“The scale and velocity of such content on Meta’s platforms significantly amplify these risks.”

The government emphasized that these acts may fall under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code and Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, particularly when digital platforms enable or amplify the spread of false information.

“We note that commission of such criminal acts falls within the ambit of Republic Act No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, particularly where these are committed through digital platforms or involve aiding or abetting cyber-related offenses,” the letter stated.

Officials also warned that viral disinformation — such as fake advisories on fuel prices or fabricated announcements about government actions — can contribute to illegal market behavior punishable under Price Act.

To address the problem, the government is requiring Meta to roll out stronger safeguards, including faster takedown systems, tighter detection of coordinated inauthentic behavior, and a dedicated 24/7 coordination channel with Philippine authorities.

“The Philippine Government remains prepared to engage constructively. However, given the urgency of the current situation, immediate, concrete, and verifiable action is expected,” the letter noted.

The ceremony was held at the historic Saint Sophia Cathedral, coinciding with the 34th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Ukraine. The venue underscored Ukraine’s centuries-old diplomatic tradition, tracing its roots to Kyivan Rus.

Following the presentation, Ambassador Deniega held a tête-à-tête with President Zelenskyy, where both sides discussed current Philippines-Ukraine relations and explored areas of mutual interest.

Days later, on April 10, Deniega continued his diplomatic engagements in Poland, meeting officials from the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy to advance the welfare of Filipino workers.

The Polish side, represented by Deputy State Minister Sebastian Gajewski, acknowledged the significant contributions of Filipinos to Poland’s labor market and economy.

Discussions covered migration policy, labor market dynamics, and key concerns affecting foreign workers, alongside measures being implemented by the Polish government to address these issues. Gajewski expressed openness to further cooperation with the Philippines.

As part of its integration efforts, Poland is also developing an interactive digital portal to help foreign workers navigate legal and administrative systems while adapting to local culture.

The engagements reflect Manila’s continued push to deepen diplomatic ties while strengthening protections for overseas Filipino workers across Europe.

For a household consuming 200 kWh, the adjustment means an estimated ₱107 increase in the monthly electricity bill.

Peso Depreciation Main Driver of Increase

Meralco said the rate hike was primarily driven by the continued depreciation of the Philippine peso against the US dollar, which significantly raised generation costs for dollar-denominated power supply contracts.

The generation charge rose by ₱0.5257 per kWh, climbing to ₱8.3864 per kWh from ₱7.8607 per kWh last month.

For the March supply period, the peso weakened by over ₱3, reaching ₱60.748 per US dollar—its steepest monthly drop since June 2022.

According to Meralco, the peso’s depreciation affected:

• 99% of the costs from First Gas Sta. Rita and San Lorenzo power plants
• 44% of costs under the utility’s other power supply agreements (PSAs) denominated in US dollars

This resulted in higher charges from:

• First Gas: up ₱1.2342 per kWh
• PSAs: up ₱0.1989 per kWh

Meralco said its move to negotiate peso-denominated capital recovery fees for newer suppliers helped cushion the impact on consumers.

WESM Charges Also Rise Amid Tight Luzon Supply

Charges from the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) surged by ₱2.3955 per kWh due to tighter supply conditions in the Luzon grid, driven by an average demand increase of 579 megawatts amid the dry season.

Power supply sources for the billing period were composed of:

• 74% from PSAs
• 20% from First Gas
• 6% from WESM

Meralco clarified that the current rate adjustment does not yet reflect potential fuel price increases linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Lower Transmission Charge Softens Increase Slightly

Helping temper the hike, transmission charges declined by ₱0.0656 per kWh due to lower ancillary service charges from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP).

However, other charges—including taxes—posted a net increase of ₱0.0734 per kWh.

Residential customers also continue to benefit from the ongoing Actual Weighted Average Tariff (AWAT) refund of ₱0.2024 per kWh.

Meralco noted that its distribution charge has remained unchanged since the ₱0.0360 per kWh reduction implemented in August 2022.

New Lifeline Discounts Begin This April

Starting this April billing cycle, qualified marginalized and low-income households—including beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)—consuming 50 kWh or less will receive a 100% discount on electricity rates under the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) new uniform national lifeline threshold.

Meralco will also continue its expanded lifeline discounts:

• 35% discount for qualified users consuming 51–70 kWh
• 20% discount for those consuming 71–100 kWh

Meralco Urges Energy Conservation

With electricity demand typically rising during the dry season, Meralco urged customers to adopt energy-saving habits to manage consumption and reduce bills.

“Beyond helping manage electricity bills, energy efficiency practices can help mitigate the impact of external factors on electricity costs,” said Joe R. Zaldarriaga, Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications.

Recommended energy-saving practices include:

• Unplugging appliances when not in use
• Maximizing natural light during daytime
• Setting air conditioners to 25°C
• Cleaning and maintaining cooling appliances regularly
• Avoiding overloading refrigerators
• Ironing clothes in batches
  
  Customers can report their electricity service concerns through the My Meralco app or through Meralco’s official social media accounts on Facebook (www.facebook.com/meralco) and X formerly Twitter (@meralco). They may also text their concerns to 0920-9716211 or 0917-5516211 or contact the Meralco Hotline at 16211