PH gov't to continue looking for partners as Russian oil arrives — DFA
Fuel prices at a gas station in Davao City show a significant jump on Tuesday, March 17. Local motorists are feeling the pinch as oil companies implement a "big-time" price hike across the board. (Photo by Keith Bacongco I MB)
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Thursday, March 26, it will continue to look for possible partners around the world without compromising the Philippines' interests after the arrival of Russian oil in the country.
In a statement, the DFA reiterated its pronouncement deferring matters on energy security to the Department of Energy (DOE) to determine "the best way forward to secure the country's energy needs amid the current crisis."
But it said "the Philippine government will continue to cooperate with all possible partners to contribute to regional and global stability, balanced with our duty to protect and secure Philippine national interests."
Malacañang confirmed on Thursday afternoon that a ship carrying 700,000 barrels of Russian crude oil arrived in the Philippines at the start of the week, following the US' lifting of sanctions.
Philippine missions around the world have been tasked to look to other countries for oil sources, according to DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, just as President Marcos declared a national energy emergency.