In a decision released April 22, the ICC’s Appeals Chamber upheld an earlier ruling that allows the court to exercise jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed during Duterte’s anti-drug campaign.

At the heart of the issue is timing.

The Philippines was a member of the ICC from November 1, 2011 until March 16, 2019. While the country officially withdrew from the court on March 17, 2019, the judges clarified that this does not erase the ICC’s authority over alleged crimes committed while the Philippines was still a member.

In simple terms: leaving the ICC does not cancel accountability for actions taken while still under its jurisdiction.

The Appeals Chamber stressed that the court’s founding treaty, the Rome Statute, must be interpreted “in line with the object and purpose of the Statute,” which is “to put an end to impunity for the perpetrators of the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole.”

Judges warned that allowing countries to avoid investigation simply by withdrawing would defeat that purpose.

“It would be incompatible with this object and purpose to enable a State Party to evade its responsibilities… once it discovers that alleged crimes… are being examined,” the chamber said.

At the same time, the court clarified that countries still have the right to leave the ICC — but only moving forward, not retroactively. This ensures what the judges described as a “balance” between a country’s right to withdraw and its obligations while it was still a member.

The case against Duterte centers on allegations of crimes against humanity, specifically murder and attempted murder, linked to his administration’s “war on drugs.” Prosecutors claim these acts were part of a “widespread and systematic attack” on civilians between 2011 and 2019.

Duterte has denied wrongdoing.

The former president did not attend the hearing, having waived his right to be present. He was represented by his defense counsel.

With the appeal now rejected, the case moves forward in the ICC process, bringing it a step closer to a full trial where prosecutors will seek to prove the charges.

The ruling also sends a broader message: Countries cannot use withdrawal as a shield against accountability for alleged international crimes.

At the “Science2Business: Energy Resilience for Enhanced Security” conference held April 21 at the Manila Polo Club, officials from both countries highlighted the urgency of translating research into real-world solutions, especially as geopolitical tensions and climate risks reshape global energy landscapes.

Organized by the Stratbase Institute in partnership with the Embassy of Slovenia in the Philippines — Ljubljana’s first in Southeast Asia — the forum underscored a shared push for a science-to-business (S2B) approach to energy development.

Stratbase COO Rupert Paul Manhit pointed to Slovenia as a model for aligning government, industry, and civil society through research-driven innovation, an approach he said the Philippines can emulate as it positions itself as a hub for green metals and renewable energy.

“We are entering this period with important advantages. We have in place the right policy direction, with stronger support for renewable energy, infrastructure development, and digital transformation,” he said.

Manhit stressed that partnerships will be key to unlocking these opportunities: “We believe that progress is best achieved through cooperation with like-minded countries — those that share our commitment to mutual growth, ethical innovation, and rules-based cooperation… Slovenia is one such partner.”

Slovenian Ambassador Smiljana Knez affirmed her country’s readiness to work closely with the Philippines through technology sharing, academic collaboration, and public-private partnerships. She also pushed for stronger energy efficiency measures, describing them as essential to lowering costs and addressing climate risks.

Special Envoy for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga called for a “quadruple-helix” model of innovation — bringing together government, academia, industry, and communities — to address converging global threats.

“This threat convergence requires countries such as the Philippines to continuously re-examine development and security priorities in order to ensure that we attain stability and resilience through food, energy, and water security,” she said in her keynote address.

From Slovenia, Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Dr. Igor Papič underscored the country’s heavy investments in research, noting that energy resilience “in the face of geopolitical disruption is a crucial aspect of our security and sustainable development.”

“The transfer of this knowledge into practice, especially into the economy, is essential for the development and prosperity of our country. This government is fully aware of that. That is why we have made significant investment in both knowledge and its application,” he added.

Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum echoed the need to strengthen collaboration, stressing that diversifying the country’s energy sources is now “more urgent than ever” to safeguard national security.

While the Philippines may not be directly hit by the current global energy crisis, Solidum noted its ripple effects on transport and other sectors. Since 2011, the Department of Science and Technology has backed 71 projects worth ₱652 million to advance solar, wind, ocean, and waste-to-energy technologies.

“Reinforcing our resilience to climate and disaster threats is no longer optional. It is a necessity,” Solidum said. “We anticipate collaboration and solutions for both countries to prosper.”

Oban’s assumption as national security adviser reinforces the administration’s commitment to strengthen national security, defense planning, and inter-agency coordination to attain a free, peaceful, and resilient Philippines.

As security adviser, Oban will be responsible for national security priorities and ensuring continuity in the government’s efforts to keep the nation safe and secure.

Oban, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1979, has extensive experience in military operations, defense planning, and national security.

He previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans (J5) and as head of the Visiting Forces Agreement Commission.

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.

This underscores the company’s strong confidence in the Philippine economy, as reaffirmed by MMC President and CEO Takao Kato during a meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Secretary Frederick Go at the Malacañan Palace Monday.

This strategic move accelerates the localization of advanced hybrid vehicle production, supporting the country’s goals for cleaner transport and higher-value manufacturing.

“This is a landmark investment that will redefine the future of our automotive industry. And the even more exciting possibility is that we could be an exporter of hybrid cars,” said Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go in a news release.

MMC is also looking at the possibility of exporting products from its Laguna plant.

By producing HEVs locally, the Philippines can reduce oil import dependence and cut urban emissions —while aligning with the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA) and positioning the country for a seamless transition toward full electrification as battery costs decline and renewable energy capacity grows.

This kind of investment becomes more valuable during times of uncertainty, as it will create more job opportunities for Filipinos, while propelling the nation into a more sustainable and technological future.

The Board of Investments is currently finalizing the Electric Vehicle Incentives Strategy (EVIS) program for endorsement to the Fiscal Incentives Review Board (FIRB) and approval of the President. The initiative aims to accelerate investments and reinforce the Philippines’ position as an emerging hub for electric vehicle manufacturing and investment in the region.

According to a DOE news releaase, the move supports the government’s response under Executive Order No. 110 to secure stable and reliable electricity supply, while cushioning the impact of rising fuel costs on households and businesses.

“At a time when the country must act with urgency and discipline to protect the integrity of the power system, the timely delivery of committed capacity is imperative,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin.

“Every megawatt that can be safely and lawfully brought into the grid strengthens our ability to meet demand, manage supply risks, and protect consumers. The Department is fully engaged across the entire power value chain, from generation to transmission to market operations to help ensure that these projects move forward at the soonest possible time,” the DOE secretary said.

According to the DOE, all 22 projects are in advanced construction or final testing stages. Once online, they are expected to boost supply margins, meet rising demand, and reinforce grid reliability in the near term.

The pipeline is heavily anchored on renewable energy. Twelve solar projects will contribute about 1,284 MW, alongside six hydro plants (48.23 MW), two biomass facilities (38 MW), one wind project (13.56 MW), and a 20 MW Integrated Renewable Energy Storage System (IRESS).

These projects form part of the 200 power plants President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered fast-tracked over the next three years in his fourth State of the Nation Address, underscoring a broader push toward a more diversified and resilient energy mix.

Progress is already underway. Of the 200 projects under DOE monitoring, 24 plants with a combined capacity of 1,178.642 MW are now in commercial operation. Three solar plants alone went online this month.

In parallel, seven Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) facilities with a total capacity of 190 MW are also operational, providing added flexibility to manage supply and demand.

To keep projects on track, the DOE is working closely with the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), and Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) to resolve transmission, interconnection, inspection, and registration requirements and avoid delays in commercial rollout.

The DOE said it will continue close monitoring and coordination with industry stakeholders to ensure timely delivery of new capacity in line with technical, safety, and regulatory standards.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday said the country now has sufficient crude oil supply in the near term, even as efforts continue to source more fuel amid ongoing volatility in global markets.

“We already have a supply of crude oil, a sufficient supply of crude oil until June 30. But we are still looking for supply, we are still supporting our commuters,” Marcos said in a media statement.

The assurance comes as the administration implements Executive Order No. 110, which declared a state of national emergency for energy. The order activates a whole-of-government response to ensure stable supply, uninterrupted services, and protection for vulnerable sectors as tensions in the Middle East continue to threaten global oil flows.

Despite current buffers of around 45 days, the President stressed the need for sustained sourcing efforts.

“And my instruction to them is: do not stop. Continue looking for additional supply because we do not know how long this situation will last,” he said.

“And when we say we have — now we are talking about around 45 days on average, more or less. But we do not know how long this will last, or how long the supply is going to be diminished from the Middle East through the Strait of Hormuz,” he added.

To hedge against disruptions, the Philippines is exploring alternative suppliers, including Russia, Japan, China, and South Korea.

At the same time, the government is banking on a breakthrough in domestic energy production to reduce long-term dependence on imports.

The day before (March 26), Marcos revealed the successful drilling and testing of the Camago-3 well under the Malampaya Phase 4 project — marking a significant step in strengthening indigenous energy capacity.

“My fellow Filipinos, today I am proud to announce another step forward in our mission to secure affordable, reliable energy for every Filipino,” the President said.

“The Camago-3 well has been successfully drilled and tested, producing up to 60 million standard cubic feet of gas per day,” he added.

The development is part of the $893-million Malampaya expansion, which is expected to yield significantly more recoverable gas and extend the life of the gas field by up to six years, translating into more stable and potentially cheaper electricity for consumers.

“Every unit of power we generate from Malampaya instead of imported fuel is money saved by households, by small businesses, by every Filipino that pays an electric bill,” Marcos said.

“Alam natin lahat kung gaano kahalaga ito ngayon. Ang kaguluhan sa Middle East ay nagdudulot ng matinding pabago-bago sa presyo ng gasolina sa buong mundo,” he added.

The project also signals renewed investment in energy infrastructure, with new subsea pipelines being laid for the first time in over two decades. First gas delivery from the Malampaya Phase 4 wells is targeted by the fourth quarter of 2026, alongside continued exploration of additional sites such as Bagong Pag-asa.

Together, the twin developments — expanded import sourcing and strengthened domestic production — form the backbone of the government’s strategy to navigate immediate risks while building longer-term energy resilience as the war in the Middle East escalates.

A news release from the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday (March 24) visited the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) to personally oversee the initial rollout of fuel subsidies for PUVs and ensure that the distribution process is smooth and well-organized.

“Nandito ako para tiyakin na ‘yung aming ginagawa na fuel subsidy ay maayos kasi mag-start tayo today. Pero hindi lamang dito sa Metro Manila, pero all over the country na ito,” the President said as he addressed at least 27 bus operators who received the subsidy through checks.

The initiative is part of the ₱2.5-billion allocation for PUVs under the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Fuel Subsidy Project.

Under the program, bus operators will receive ₱10,000 per unit, while drivers are entitled to ₱5,000 each.

President Marcos said the subsidies will be released through various channels — including checks, fuel cards, cash, and direct transfers to bank or e-wallet accounts — to ensure all beneficiaries receive the assistance efficiently.

“Tulungan ninyo naman kami para ‘yung mga ating riding public ay hindi masyadong mahirapan, at hindi sila masyadong mabigatan sa pamasahe dahil nga alam naman natin kung ano ‘yung pangyayari – nagbabago ‘yung presyo ng langis all over the world,” the President said.

The Chief Executive stressed the importance of cooperation between the government and the private sector in managing the impact of fluctuating oil prices.

President Marcos also encouraged transport operators to provide feedback on how to further improve the system to benefit both operators and the riding public.

“Kung palagay namin ay kaya naming gawin para pagandahin pa ang sistema, please tell us. Dahil ang gusto natin is as convenient as possible, as easy as possible, at as quick – ‘yung mabilis as possible,” President Marcos said.

“Thank you all for being part of the solution at patuloy nating gagawin ito hanggat kailangan,” the President added.

The program covers a wide range of transport sectors, including jeepneys, buses, taxis, UV Express units, Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS), tricycles, and delivery services.

More than 245,000 drivers and operators of over 1.18 million vehicles are expected to benefit from the initiative.

Distribution for major PUVs has begun, while assistance for tricycle and delivery-service drivers is scheduled after Holy Week.

For drivers, subsidies will be distributed via e-wallet platforms such as GCash or Maya, with the government shouldering transaction fees to ensure recipients receive the full amount.

The measure is intended to support transport workers whose incomes have been severely affected by rising fuel costs.

Recent reports indicated that some drivers have temporarily stopped operating due to higher expenses, while certain bus companies have reduced their trips.

In addition to the fuel subsidy, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will provide financial assistance under its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program for selected transport sectors in Metro Manila.

Meanwhile, fare discounts remain in place for rail commuters using LRT-2 and MRT-3, with senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students continuing to receive a 50% discount.

Commuters can also avail of the Love Bus “Libreng Sakay” Program, which has been implemented since July 2025 in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao.

Under Department Circular No. DC2026-03-0010, the DOE authorized the limited use of Euro II petroleum products — a less stringent fuel standard compared to the country’s current Euro IV requirement — as a contingency measure to help maintain fuel availability.

In simple terms, Euro II fuel is an older, “dirtier” type of fuel with higher sulfur content, which can lead to more pollution. By contrast, Euro IV fuel — the current standard in the Philippines — is significantly cleaner and designed for modern engines with stricter emission controls.

The DOE clarified that the policy does not replace the existing Euro IV standard, but serves as a temporary fallback to ensure there is enough fuel supply, especially for sectors that can still safely use the older type.

“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,” said Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin.

“This interim authority is subject to strict quality controls, clear notification requirements, and appropriate consumer protection measures. Our objective is to uphold fuel supply security while remaining guided by safety, regulatory discipline, and the broader public interest,” she added.

The use of Euro II fuel will be limited to older vehicles (2015 models and earlier), traditional jeepneys, power generators, industrial users, and marine transport, where compatibility is less of an issue.

The move comes as global oil markets remain under strain, raising concerns about supply disruptions and price spikes. By allowing a temporary mix of fuel standards, the government aims to give suppliers more flexibility in sourcing fuel.

To prevent abuse, oil companies are required to keep Euro II and Euro IV fuels separate in storage and distribution, and must notify the DOE where the lower-grade fuel will be sold.

Pumps offering Euro II fuel must also clearly inform consumers, who are advised to check if their vehicles can safely use it.

The DOE warned that violations, including fuel adulteration or failure to meet quality standards, will face penalties under existing laws.

The policy was crafted after consultations with the oil and automotive industries, with the DOE emphasizing that it will remain in place only as long as necessary.

Ultimately, the agency said the goal is straightforward: ensure Filipinos have access to fuel even during global disruptions, while keeping safeguards in place to protect consumers and the environment.

“In times of global uncertainty, close collaboration among ASEAN+3 economies is more crucial than ever. By anticipating risks, sharing insights, and coordinating policy responses, member economies can navigate these challenges together,” the DOF said in a news release.

ASEAN+3 refers to the cooperation framework among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Member Countries and the three East Asian countries, namely China, Japan, and South Korea. Established in 1997, ASEAN+3 aims to strengthen regional integration and build an East Asian Community.

The ASEAN+3 Finance Process serves as a platform for member economies to discuss financial and macroeconomic developments and address regional risks and challenges, the DOF said.

While each economy manages its own domestic pressures, a united regional approach is key to building resilience and safeguarding stability against external shocks.

In line with this, the DOF pushed to advance regional disaster risk financing in response to climate-related challenges.

Member economies expressed support for continued collaboration and for creating a roadmap to boost regional resilience and preparedness, which will be further discussed at the ASEAN+3 Finance and Central Bank Deputies’ Meeting (AFCDM+3) in April 2026.

This vision of support was evident at the second Task Force Meeting held from March 3-4, 2026, in Osaka, Japan, which was co-chaired by the DOF and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), together with the Japan Ministry of Finance (JMOF) and the Bank of Japan (BOJ).

International Finance Group (IFG) Assistant Secretary Donalyn U. Minimo, who co-chaired the meeting, said that recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and the resulting volatility in oil and LNG prices have direct impacts on fiscal space, economic growth, and livelihoods.

Member economies likewise supported ongoing discussions on the DOF-championed Sovereign Asset and Fiscal Empowerment (SAFE) Facility, which embeds disaster insurance directly into development projects financed by bilateral and multilateral partners.

The DOF also continued to advance the Philippines- and Japan-led ASEAN+3 Fiscal Exchange, a platform for Finance Ministries to share best practices and insights, strengthening collective regional resilience.

The Philippines is Chair of the 2026 ASEAN, with the theme “Navigating Our Future, Together.”