Cebu City is preparing for potential economic impacts as rising tensions in the Gulf region threaten to push global fuel prices higher.
Mayor Nestor Archival has placed the city under a “Heightened State of Economic and Operational Preparedness.”
Archival warned that increases in oil prices could affect transportation, food, utilities, and even the city’s waste management budget.
“Due to the ongoing tensions in the Gulf region, global fuel prices may increase in the coming weeks. When fuel prices go up, transportation, food, and basic commodities are also affected,” he said in a public advisory on Wednesday, March 4.
The advisory follows escalating conflict in the Middle East after a joint military campaign by the United States and Israel against Iran on February 28, which has disrupted regional air travel and unsettled oil markets.
Cebu City currently spends around P500 million annually on waste disposal.
With residual waste now hauled to Aloguinsan, higher fuel costs could drive that figure to P1 billion, and possibly P1.5 billion to P2 billion, depending on global oil price movements.
“This is a serious financial responsibility,” Archival said, directing all city departments to strictly manage fuel use and ensure government vehicles serve only essential operations.
At the household level, Archival encouraged residents to practice waste segregation, compost biodegradable materials, and recycle to reduce residual trash sent to landfills.
“The less waste we send to landfill, the lower our costs will be,” he said.
He also warned of potential food price increases if global instability continues.
“I encourage every household, if possible, to grow your own vegetables, start backyard or container gardening. Food security begins at home,” he said.
Residents were further urged to conserve electricity and water by turning off unused appliances, avoiding unnecessary power consumption, and using water responsibly.
“Saving energy and water not only lowers your bills — it strengthens our city’s overall resilience,” the mayor said.
Archival described the situation as a “call for discipline, preparedness, and unity,” assuring residents that Cebu City remains “stable, proactive, and ready.”
The city government is also monitoring the safety of Cebuano overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in affected Gulf states.
Cebu City formally coordinated with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration to obtain an official tally of residents working or living in conflict-affected countries.
Archival said the city is prepared to activate an assistance desk for OFWs and their families, coordinate with barangays to identify affected households, and provide temporary support and referrals for returning workers.
As of Monday, there were no confirmed reports of Cebu City residents harmed in the conflict.
“So, first of all, I would like to say that we have a lot of work to do to ensure the safety of OFW workers,” Archival said.
He added that vigilance and responsible management of local resources remain the city’s first line of defense against uncertainties unfolding thousands of miles away. (LLP)
Photo from Nestor Archival/Facebook
