Bataan: Senator Francis Escudero has put forward Limay, Bataan as the proposed location for a government-owned fuel storage facility, under a new bill that aims to establish a national strategic petroleum reserve.

According to Philippines News Agency, Escudero filed Senate Bill No. 1993 on Wednesday, which is designed to create a National Strategic Fuel Reserve system. The purpose of the bill is to enhance energy security and provide a buffer against global oil supply disruptions. The proposed facility is expected to have the capacity to store enough fuel to cover 90 to 180 days of national consumption, thereby helping stabilize supply and mitigate price shocks.

Escudero highlighted the strategic advantages of Limay, noting its deep-water port and proximity to the country's only refinery, which make it a practical site for the reserve. Under the proposed measure, the Department of Energy will collaborate with the Philippine National Oil Company to oversee the construction, management, and operation of the fuel reserve. This includes responsibilities such as procurement, storage, and distribution of the fuel.

The bill also introduces a Targeted Fuel Relief Program aimed at providing cash aid or fuel vouchers to sectors adversely affected by supply disruptions and price increases. Beneficiaries will include farmers, fisherfolk, transport workers, and small businesses. Escudero emphasized the importance of a strategic crude oil stockpile as a protective measure, allowing the government to release fuel during shortages or extreme price hikes.

Finally, the measure proposes an initial PHP60 billion budget for constructing the facility and mandates the maintenance of fuel reserves to ensure long-term stability of supply.