Philippines Weekly Brief: 2026-03-31
The Philippines faces heightened security and operational risks due to a 120 percent surge in fuel prices, triggering transport strikes and increased public transit pressure. Simultaneously, sophisticated phishing and booking scams are targeting the tourism and marketing sectors.
Safety and Security
Fuel-Driven Transport Strikes Cause Extended Travel Times, Increased Passenger Volume in Mass Public Transport Systems
Minor traffic and travel disruptions in Metro Manila and some provinces have been observed as several transport unions led by PISTON, MANIBELA and civil society groups implemented back-to-back transportation strikes on March 19 to 20 and 26 to 27, 2026. These were initiated as fuel prices in the Philippines nearly doubled following the Middle East conflict.
As of Tuesday, March 31, fuel prices have gone up as follows since February 24:
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