Lapu-Lapu City has declared a State of Preparedness as global tensions in the Middle East threaten to push fuel prices higher and impact the local economy.
In an advisory released on March 5, 2026, Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan said the move is aimed at preparing residents and ensuring government operations remain efficient amid potential economic repercussions, particularly rising costs of fuel, transportation, and essential goods.
“For our constituents na siya, nanawagan ta because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East,” King-Chan said in an interview with the press. “We should be expecting nga ang fuel prices, labi na didto ta mukuha, musaka na gyud ni.”
The mayor projected that fuel costs could increase by P5 to P10 starting next week. She urged residents to take practical steps to mitigate the impact, including planning trips carefully, limiting unnecessary travel, carpooling, and considering walking or biking when possible.
Energy conservation is also a priority. Residents are encouraged to use air-conditioning only when necessary, turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and conserve water, including through rainwater catchment systems.
Mindful consumption, reducing food waste, supporting local vendors, and avoiding panic buying are also recommended.
“We are asking everyone to do their own mitigation measures—unsaon pag-save sa water, electric cost, fuel cost, and to plan our trips ahead,” the mayor said.
The preparedness declaration also directs all Lapu-Lapu City government offices to implement cost-saving and resource management measures.
Government vehicle use will be limited to essential trips, single-passenger travel discouraged, and routes coordinated to maximize efficiency.
Air-conditioning in offices will operate from 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., with fan mode during lunch breaks. Lights and appliances must be turned off when not in use, and overtime limited to urgent needs.
In water management, faucets must be checked regularly for leaks, and the City Engineer’s Office will design and install water catchment systems at City Hall as an alternative source.
City programs and activities will be reviewed, with priority given to essential initiatives for the second and third quarters to create a buffer against potential fuel cost spikes.
The Lapu-Lapu City Public Market will intensify weekly inspections to prevent profiteering and unjustified price increases.
King-Chan said the city is also awaiting national government action on possible fuel tax freezes or subsidies.
Meanwhile, neighboring Mandaue City is implementing its own fuel-saving strategies in response to the threat of rising petroleum and commodity prices.
Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano said all government departments have been asked to submit action plans detailing how they can conserve fuel and cut unnecessary trips.
“Among gipasubmit ang among department heads ug action plan on how we could cut cost of fuel. Dili necessary na mga trips, dili na lang,” Ouano said in a press briefing on March 5, 2026.
He clarified that essential services and emergency transport, such as ambulances, police vehicles, and disaster response teams, will remain fully operational.
Both cities are taking proactive steps to minimize economic strain and ensure that government services and public safety continue smoothly despite the uncertainty caused by rising global oil prices. (VCL)
