Manila has formally asked Washington to renew a waiver that would permit the country to buy oil and petroleum products from Russia, the Philippines' Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said on Tuesday.
At a news briefing, Garin said the government is "awaiting their response, but we are very positive on getting this other window." She also noted that the waiver had already expired on April 11.
While expressing confidence about securing the U.S. extension, Garin said the administration is simultaneously preparing contingency supply plans should the request be denied. "We wanted to open the Russian window because we want more options. We need diversification," she said, underscoring that Manila's strategy is not limited to Russian sources.
Garin outlined a broader procurement approach that includes looking to other international producers. The government is considering suppliers in South America, specifically Colombia and Argentina, in addition to Canada and the United States, as part of efforts to diversify energy sources and supply channels.
Diplomatic context
The push for an extension follows diplomatic engagement with U.S. officials. Philippine ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez said last month that Manila was working with Washington to secure waivers and exemptions that would allow it to obtain oil from U.S.-sanctioned countries.
Next steps and contingency planning
Garin's comments indicate Manila is pursuing a two-track approach: advocate for an extension of the specific waiver while expanding its roster of potential suppliers to reduce dependence on any single source. The government is preparing alternative supply arrangements in case the U.S. does not approve the requested extension.
At this stage, Manila is awaiting an answer from Washington and continuing to develop options across multiple regions, reflecting an emphasis on supply diversification as a strategic priority.