Motorists in the Philippines are bracing for another wave of fuel price increases, set to take effect on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This marks the sixth consecutive week of rising costs for gasoline, diesel, and kerosene, adding financial strain to consumers and businesses alike.
Details of the Latest Price Adjustments
According to advisories released by major oil companies, including Seaoil and Caltex, the price hikes will be implemented starting at 6:00 AM. Specifically, gasoline prices are expected to rise by P1.20 per liter, while diesel and kerosene will each increase by P0.60 per liter. These adjustments follow a similar pattern from the previous week, where gasoline saw a P0.60 per liter increase, diesel rose by P1.00 per liter, and kerosene went up by P0.60 per liter.
Root Causes Behind the Sustained Increases
The ongoing surge in fuel prices is primarily attributed to geopolitical tensions outside the country, which continue to disrupt global oil markets. These external factors have led to volatile supply chains and increased costs, prompting local oil firms to adjust their prices weekly. The consistent upward trend over the past six weeks highlights the broader impact of international conflicts on domestic economies.
Impact on Consumers and the Economy
The repeated price hikes are likely to have several effects:
- Increased transportation costs for commuters and logistics companies.
- Higher operational expenses for industries reliant on fuel, such as agriculture and manufacturing.
- Potential inflationary pressures as businesses pass on costs to consumers.
As motorists and businesses adapt to these changes, experts warn that continued geopolitical instability could lead to further price fluctuations in the coming weeks. Monitoring these trends is crucial for planning and mitigating economic impacts.
