Price Hike Looms for Cooking Gas, Power Rates

Why It Matters

The combined LPG and electricity hikes will squeeze Filipino household budgets and could fuel inflation, prompting urgent policy response.

Key Takeaways

• LPG prices expected to rise P35‑P40 per kilo in April.
• Electricity rates may jump P4 per kilowatt‑hour, adding ₱800 bills.
• Shipping costs for LPG surged five‑fold, driving price hikes.
• Government allocated ₱20 billion emergency fund for fuel security.
• ERC halted spot market trading to curb runaway electricity prices.

Summary

Philippine consumers face steep increases in both cooking gas and electricity as the global oil crisis ripples through local markets. Regulators and industry players warn that LPG prices could jump P35‑P40 per kilo in April, translating to an extra ₱385‑₱440 per 11‑kg cylinder, while shipping costs have surged five‑fold. At the same time, the Energy Regulatory Commission anticipates a possible P4 per kilowatt‑hour rise in power rates, which would add roughly ₱800 to a typical household’s monthly bill.

The price pressure stems from a spike in LPG contract prices to $95 per metric ton and higher international diesel premiums, prompting Regasco President Arnel T. to project the steepest adjustment in history. Energy Secretary Sharon Garin ruled out capping prices, emphasizing monitoring over intervention, while ERC Chairman Ninohan announced a suspension of spot‑market trading to prevent runaway electricity costs. Dealers note ample LPG supply, yet many households are stockpiling amid uncertainty.

Government response includes a ₱20 billion emergency fund for the DOE’s Energy Security Program, aimed at securing refined fuels and additional LPG supplies. The DOE also ordered fuel‑conservation measures and prioritized renewable and coal dispatch to cushion the impact on power tariffs.

If the hikes materialize, Filipino families—especially low‑income earners—will see disposable income shrink, potentially stoking broader inflationary pressures. The situation underscores the need for swift policy action and diversified energy sourcing to shield consumers from volatile global markets.

Original Description

The global oil crisis is having a domino effect on energy costs in the Philippines, specifically electricity rates and cooking gas. Alvin Elchico has the details. ANC, The World Tonight, March 26, 2026