MANILA, Philippines — Filipino motorists and the transport sector are bracing for a massive reprieve as industry experts predict a double-digit rollback in fuel prices next week. According to early estimates based on international oil trading from April 20 to 24, 2026, diesel prices could drop by as much as ₱8.00 to ₱10.00 per liter on Tuesday, April 28.
This potential adjustment would mark one of the most significant single-week price drops in recent history, providing much-needed relief amid the ongoing “Super El Niño” and global economic volatility.
Based on the Movement of Prices in the International Market (MOPS), the following rollbacks are anticipated:
- Diesel: ₱8.00 to ₱10.00 per liter (Decrease)
- Kerosene: ₱7.50 to ₱9.00 per liter (Decrease)
- Gasoline: ₱1.00 to ₱2.00 per liter (Decrease)
Energy experts and Department of Energy (DOE) officials attribute this sharp downward trend to several global factors:
- Easing Middle East Tensions: De-escalation in geopolitical conflicts has reduced the “risk premium” previously tacked onto crude prices, stabilizing supply routes.
- Inventory Build-up: Unexpectedly high crude and distillate inventories in major economies like the US and China have signaled a temporary surplus in the market.
- Economic Cooling: Concerns over a global manufacturing slowdown have dampened the demand forecast for industrial fuels, particularly diesel and kerosene.
The substantial cut in diesel prices is expected to have a ripple effect across the Philippine economy:
- Jeepney and Trucking Operators: A ₱10/liter cut translates to hundreds of pesos in daily savings for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, potentially easing the pressure for fare hikes.
- Food Prices: Lower logistics and transport costs for agricultural products from provinces like Zambales and Batangas may lead to more stable prices in Metro Manila’s wet markets.
- Power Rates: Many off-grid “missionary” areas that rely on diesel-powered generators may see a reduction in the fuel component of their electricity bills.
Prior to this anticipated rollback, fuel prices had been on a steady climb. Gasoline and diesel have seen cumulative net increases of over ₱10.00 since the start of 2026. If the maximum ₱10.00 rollback for diesel is realized, it would effectively wipe out a significant portion of the year-to-date hikes for that specific fuel type.
Oil companies typically announce the final price adjustments every Monday afternoon, with implementation taking effect at 6:00 AM every Tuesday. Motorists are advised to monitor official announcements from the DOE and local oil firms for the exact figures.
