Fuel prices are set to surge again this week, with gasoline expected to increase by P12.90 to P16.60 per liter, diesel by P20.40 to P23.90 per liter, and kerosene by P6.90 to P8.90 per liter, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).

According to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort, Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the price adjustments will be implemented on a staggered basis starting Tuesday, with some oil companies spreading the increases over two to three days to soften the impact on consumers.

The upcoming hike follows last week’s significant adjustments, when gasoline prices rose by P7 to P13 per liter, diesel by P17 to more than P24 per liter, and kerosene by P32 to over P38 per liter.

Garin said the DOE is coordinating with oil companies to ensure the continuity of fuel discount programs for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers, delivery riders, and other motorists as global oil prices remain volatile amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Based on monitoring from March 10 to 16, pump prices ranged from P63.40 to P75 per liter for gasoline, P70.95 to P91 for diesel, and P85 to P134.89 for kerosene.

With the new adjustments scheduled to take effect starting Tuesday and running until March 23, fuel prices are expected to climb even higher in the coming days.

Despite the sharp increases, Garin assured the public that the country’s petroleum supply will remain stable in the coming month, noting that the government is actively working to secure alternative fuel suppliers.

The energy chief also explained that some gas stations, particularly in remote areas, may sell fuel at higher prices due to increased transportation and insurance costs involved in delivering petroleum products to those locations.