Senator Escudero calls for unified response to global energy disruptions

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is calling for a coordinated, whole-of-nation response to global energy disruptions.

He emphasizes that government agencies, schools, local governments, and the private sector must work under a unified framework to protect Filipino families and maintain economic stability.

“The global energy landscape is shifting and we cannot afford fragmented responses. To protect the Filipino family and keep our economy moving, all sectors must contribute to a coordinated plan,” Escudero said in a statement.

The Senator welcomed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order No. 110, which declares a State of National Energy Emergency and introduces the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT).

Escudero noted that this proactive stance reflects the country's readiness to address energy security challenges.

“We may be the first nation to declare a State of National Energy Emergency amid this standoff, not because we are the most vulnerable, but because we are prepared to buckle down to work,” he said.

Escudero also supports the Energy Regulatory Commission’s decision to suspend Wholesale Electricity Spot Market operations across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to stabilize supply and prevent price volatility.

“This decisive action from the ERC ensures that power sector stakeholders operate under clear, steady guidance at a time when international tensions threaten our fuel and energy security,” he said.

To further mitigate the crisis, he proposed the following sectoral contributions:

Education: The Department of Education (DepEd) and Commission on Higher Education (CHED) should implement energy-saving practices and utilize efficiency dashboards to track consumption.

Local Government: The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) should coordinate with Local Government Units (LGUs) to prioritize essential services and reduce non-essential energy use.

Trade and Industry: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) should engage the private sector—including the hospitality and food industries—to encourage responsible energy consumption.

“Academic institutions are large consumers of energy. Education is among the best lead in our national discipline,” Escudero noted.

Senator Escudero reiterated the necessity of an inter-agency body to harmonize these efforts, particularly ahead of the high-demand summer months.

He maintains that these preparatory measures are essential to avoid severe disruptions and ensure national resilience.

He reiterated the importance of establishing an inter-agency body to harmonize efforts across sectors and ensure continuity of services, particularly during the summer months when energy demand typically rises.

While expressing hope that severe disruptions or rationing can be avoided, Escudero emphasized the need for preparedness.

“Preparation is not an admission of defeat. We are acting today so that these disruptions do not take us by surprise,” he said.

-Paraluman News