Manila Experiences Empty Streets Due to Rising Fuel Prices Caused by Crisis in the Strait of Hormuz
Metro Manila has long struggled with traffic congestion, but recent developments present a juxtaposition between a critical national energy crisis and a momentarily alleviated commute. Although fuel prices have soared due to international conflicts, resulting in fewer vehicles on the roads, this temporary relief masks deeper issues that could further destabilize the Philippine economy. The financial strain faced by everyday workers illustrates not only the immediate impact of rising gas prices but also raises concerns over the long-term sustainability of the nation’s economy.
Manila, Philippines – For years, Metro Manila has been synonymous with heavy traffic congestion, consistently ranking as one of the worst globally, as highlighted by the TomTom traffic index in 2024. A report published in 2021 by AltMobility and the Friedrich Naumann Foundation revealed that commuters, on average, spent an astounding 188 hours in traffic annually, translating to an estimated loss of half a billion dollars for the Philippine economy. However, recent observations have shown a surprising decrease in travel times, with the usual 26-kilometer drive from Manila’s airport to Quezon City Hall taking approximately 45 minutes instead of the usual two hours, as indicated by Google Maps. This shift, however, is not the result of effective transport policy implementations or improvements but rather stems from an unsettling rise in fuel prices driven by tensions from military operations involving the United States and Israel against Iran.
On a typical Wednesday, Baclaran Church in Manila bustles with activity, with a vibrant mix of jasmine flower vendors, barbecue sellers, and a constant flow of congregants paying homage. However, on March 25, coinciding with the first day of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s national energy emergency declaration, the lively scene diminished, reflecting the eerie quiet brought about by the rising costs of living. As Holy Week commenced—a significant religious period marking Jesus’ suffering and death for many Filipinos—the somber atmosphere only intensified.
Ruben, a 27-year-old parking attendant, found himself under the strain of an already challenging job. Working over 12 hours since early morning, he struggled to earn just in tips, significantly less than usual, which translates to tougher times for him and his family. Similarly, Emily Ruado, a 59-year-old paper napkin vendor and mother of four, revealed that her daily earnings have halved from to around due to the escalating fuel prices, voicing her concerns about their survival amid these hardships.
The financial predicaments faced by workers like Ruben and Emily underscore a broader economic challenge for the Philippines. As fuel prices continue to climb, fears of rising costs for basic goods and potential job losses loom large, threatening to strangle the country’s economic growth. Just prior to the onset of the conflict in Iran, the Philippine gross domestic product (GDP) was projected to grow by 5 percent; however, that outlook is increasingly uncertain.
Additionally, as the number of buses, jeepneys, and ride-hailing vehicles on the streets declines, many commuters have resorted to Manila’s already limited railway network, which has led to overcrowding and significant delays during rush hour. This scenario not only highlights the inadequacies of the mass transit system but also evokes reminders of ongoing corruption scandals within the multibillion-dollar infrastructure projects in the country.
In a time when the economy is hanging in the balance, the struggles of everyday Filipinos become a microcosm of larger systemic issues that require urgent attention and innovative solutions to ensure a resilient future.
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