MANILA – The Philippines is seeking another extension or window of a sanctions waiver from the United States to allow continued oil imports from Russia, the Department of Energy (DOE) said, even as it assured that alternative suppliers are available if the request is denied.

Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the DOE has coordinated with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to request an extension that would be forwarded to the Philippine ambassador to the United States.

“We’re awaiting for their response, pero (but) we’re very positive on getting this window. If it doesn’t come through, we have other options also,” Garin said in a briefing.

The request comes amid international sanctions affecting trade with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, which may be lifted through a waiver granted by the United States.

A vessel carrying 700,000 barrels of Russian crude oil reportedly arrived in the Philippines last month, with documents indicating Petron Corp. as the consignee.

Garin said the country is not dependent on a single supplier and cited multiple possible sources of crude oil and refined products.

“Hindi lang naman Russia ang nagpo-produce. Ang South America meron din, halimbawa Colombia, Argentina, halos lahat sila niyan sa South American meron. Even Canada, US. There are different types of crude oil pero and refined products nila ay magagamit pa rin natin,” she said.

“Even in nearby countries like Brunei, India, marami pa rin naman tayong (we still have) other options. We wanted to open the Russian window because we want more options. Diversification kailangan para hindi tayo dependent sa isang country lang,” she added.

The DOE said global oil markets remain volatile due to ongoing geopolitical tensions, including developments in the Middle East involving the United States and Iran, which have affected energy supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

Garin said the government continues to engage with foreign partners on energy supply concerns.

“We are continuously holding dialogs with the other embassies, including the US also,” she said.