MANILA, Mar 9: Long queues formed at petrol stations across the Philippines on March 9 as residents rushed to stock up ahead of a sharp fuel price increase triggered by soaring global oil costs from the US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin told lawmakers that prices will rise 17-24 pesos (29-40 US cents) per litre this week, with hikes staggered over several days by oil companies to ease the impact.

At a Metro Manila station, attendant Enrico Guda reported daily vehicle traffic doubling to 1,000, with lines persisting through dawn in scorching heat; student Francis Aranda said he's rationing his fuel allowance due to the "hurtful" spike.

Police Chief Brigadier General Randulf Tuano ordered inspections to curb hoarding and profiteering, while ferries like Starlite (25% hike from Tuesday) and Montenegro Lines (10-20% from March 23) announced fare increases.

President Ferdinand Marcos introduced a four-day work week for non-essential government staff, mandated 10-20% cuts in agency fuel use, and plans to seek congressional approval for excise tax cuts if crude exceeds $80 per barrel—now with WTI and Brent both above $110.