Diesel up again: Manila's jeepney drivers and families feel the Middle East war

What happened

The Department of Energy (DOE) announced on Monday that from 27 October diesel will rise by 1.20 pesos per litre and kerosene by 0.50 pesos, while gasoline falls by 0.30 pesos. The prices apply until 2 November. It is the fourth straight week of mixed adjustments; the previous week diesel rose 2.60 pesos while gasoline fell 4.30 pesos.

Price levels are far above where they stood before the Middle East conflict. In Metro Manila diesel averaged 91.40 pesos per litre in mid-October, compared with 60.79 pesos in late February. Kerosene rose from an average of 84.67 to 124.40 pesos over the same period.

The DOE attributes the moves to world markets and tensions in the Gulf region. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the war could last beyond 2026. Stocks cover about 53 days, and the government is looking for additional suppliers, including Australia, Canada and Russia.

The mood on the ground

For diesel motorists it is another painful hit to the wallet, according to motoring site Top Gear Philippines. Diesel powers Manila's jeepneys, buses and delivery fleets – business portal Context.ph expects higher transport costs could eventually push up the prices of food and everyday goods.

The kerosene increase hits low-income families hardest, as many use it for cooking and lighting. The small gasoline cut offers only limited relief to drivers and commuters with their own vehicles.

Jeepney drivers had already gone on strike in late September: groups such as Manibela and Piston said the one-peso fare increase approved then did not cover fuel costs, with drivers losing up to 1,500 pesos a day to diesel. The new round also comes just before All Souls' Day – on Monday many travellers were already securing tickets at the Cubao bus terminals for trips to the provinces.

Voices from the media