The government continues to closely monitor developments in the Middle East, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured the public Tuesday, expressing readiness to provide support should the conflict escalate.

“Nandito ang gobyerno. Nandito ang pamahalaan at talagang binabantayan natin kung anong mga bagong pangyayari, kung ano pang darating (The government is here and we are closely monitoring all new developments and whatever else may happen),” Marcos said after the distribution of cash aid to tricycle drivers.

Marcos allayed public concerns, saying affected Filipinos will receive assistance from the government to ensure that their livelihood and daily commute will not be disrupted.

He expressed optimism that the ongoing crisis in the Gulf region would not significantly affect the Philippines.

“Patuloy lang at hindi naman masyadong maging problema itong nangyaring giyera sa Middle East. Asahan po ninyong kami po ay nakabantay at nakaalalay sa lahat ng ating mga kababayan (We hope that this war in the Middle East will not cause too much difficulty. Rest assured that we are watching closely and are ready to support all of our fellow citizens),” he said.

Marcos earlier directed government agencies to prepare contingency measures and implement energy-saving efforts amid possible oil price shocks linked to tensions in the Middle East.

Malacañang said the administration is closely monitoring fuel prices and other potential economic effects of the conflict, acknowledging that disruptions in the oil-rich region could affect global supply and transport costs.

The Philippines imports most of its oil requirements, making the country vulnerable to geopolitical tensions that could drive up global petroleum prices and impact local fuel costs.

Marcos has certified as urgent a proposed measure to amend the Biofuels Act of 2006 to address the impact of rising fuel prices amid global market volatility, particularly due to Middle East crisis. (PNA)