Clark Freeport Halts Fuel Fee to Aid Businesses During Energy Crisis
The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has announced the temporary suspension of a regulatory fee on petroleum fuel deliveries within Clark Freeport, effective from April 1, 2026, for a duration of two months. This move is part of broader measures to mitigate the impact of ongoing fuel supply issues, as the Philippines grapples with a national state of energy emergency declared by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. last month.
Immediate Relief for Locators Amid Global Challenges
During a press conference on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, CDC officials, under the theme "Fuel Supply Update, Business and Service Community Measures," detailed efforts to stabilize operations. CDC President Agnes Devanadera emphasized that the suspension of the P1 per liter royalty fee is designed to ease operating costs for businesses, known as locators, while maintaining necessary regulatory oversight. She clarified that this measure "does not waive government revenues" but serves as a short-term relief mechanism amid supply uncertainties, with CDC projected to lose P12.5 million over the two-month period.
Long-Term Strategies and Renewable Energy Push
In response to the crisis, CDC is advocating for long-term solutions to reduce dependence on traditional fuel sources. The agency is actively promoting the installation of solar rooftop systems among locators and encouraging investments in renewable energy. Devanadera stated, "We are encouraging proponents to look into renewable energy solutions to help address supply constraints," highlighting initiatives such as advancing solar farm projects to mitigate disruptions linked to global events like the Middle East crisis.
Ensuring Business Continuity and Tourism Resilience
To support fuel allocation within the zone, CDC has secured commitments from Petron Corporation to supply locators through its stations, with ongoing coordination with other suppliers. Despite fuel concerns, tourism and visitor activities in Clark Freeport remain steady. Monitoring teams reported stable foot traffic at the CDC Parade Grounds, with nearby restaurants operating at full capacity and major hotels maintaining high occupancy rates. CDC is collaborating with the Department of Tourism Region III, led by Regional Director Richard Daenos, to prevent fuel-related disruptions from affecting visitor flows and destination readiness.
Ongoing Monitoring and Stakeholder Engagement
The CDC has pledged to continue monitoring developments, engage stakeholders through follow-up consultations, and implement measures within its mandate to sustain operations, safeguard investments, and protect employment in Clark. This comprehensive approach aims to balance immediate relief with sustainable energy transitions, ensuring resilience in the face of global energy challenges.
