By Chloe Mari A. Hufana, A reporter
Invitation of PHILIPPINE President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. A regional oil sharing and pooling approach across Southeast Asia is unlikely to happen in the near term, analysts say, as the Middle East crisis exposes deep structural gaps in the region’s energy systems.
Ederson DT. Tapia, a professor of political science at the University of Makati, said the different power profiles among members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) complicate efforts to find a unified response during supply disruptions.
“Some are productive, while others are completely dependent on imports,” he said via Facebook Messenger. “In times of disruption, governments tend to protect domestic supply first.”
ASEAN economies are among the areas most vulnerable to political tensions, with a large share of crude oil and gas imports from Asia passing through the Strait of Hormuz – a sensitive area affected by the US-Israel war in Iran.
Mr. Tapia said a gradual, non-ambitious approach to cooperation is realistic, including improved information sharing systems, harmonized stock-taking procedures and selective agreements between member states.
“The real test is whether these can work during a real shock,” he said. “At the same time, even modest steps in this regard can have a profound effect on the region.”
Josue Raphael J. Cortez, professor of ASEAN Studies at De La Salle-College of St. Benilde in Manila, said the region is not yet ready for a binding and fully operational framework for oil sharing.
He cited the unequal economic capacity among ASEAN members, and the bloc’s long-standing principle of non-interference – often referred to as the “ASEAN Way” – as key obstacles.
“However, issues have historically forced ASEAN to work more closely together,” he said via Messenger. “They may be committed to this type of program, but with some considerations.”
Mr. Cortez said a phased approach — focused on ongoing consultation and incremental framework development — offers a more effective way forward. Existing forums such as ASEAN+3, which includes China, Japan and South Korea, can serve as entry points for broader cooperation.
He added that infrastructure initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid can also help lay the foundation for deeper energy cooperation.
Mr. Marcos, speaking at a conference led by Japan last week, urged regional leaders to pursue joint oil collection and implement the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, warning that supply disruptions risk increasing inflation and slowing economic growth.
He also supported more research on joint stockpiles, citing existing models such as national stockpiling programs and cooperation programs with polluting exporters.
The proposal comes as the Philippines, this year’s chair of ASEAN, faces rising oil prices that have fueled inflation and increased pressure on households and businesses.
The country remains under a year-round national electricity emergency, reflecting its heavy reliance on imported fuel and exposure to global supply shocks.
Within ASEAN, oil production is concentrated in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Brunei, while dependent economies such as the Philippines face greater vulnerability to price fluctuations.
Analysts say any regional approach must address these divisions in order to gain momentum.
Mr. Tapia noted that while power cooperation can strengthen broader regional cooperation, it may also face criticism if it increases reliance on external partners or fails in times of crisis.
“Some will argue that the priority should be to build strong water reservoirs and separate sources of electric power,” he said.
For now, Manila is focusing on domestic initiatives, including plans to increase fuel efficiency, diversify the supply of pollutants and establish a strategic fuel reserve.
The government also explored other suppliers, including non-traditional partners in South America, while negotiating additional supply arrangements with alliances.
Congress approved Mr. Marcos to suspend the tax on fuel products to reduce rising costs, although the administration has so far limited the liberalization of liquefied petroleum gas and kerosene.
