Diesel Continues Five Week Price Hike as Fuel Costs Rise This January

Pinoyjuander - The diesel continues five-week price hike as oil companies announced another round of fuel price increases effective January 27, 2026, putting additional pressure on Filipino motorists and transport operators. The latest adjustment marks the fifth straight week of diesel price hikes, reinforcing concerns over sustained fuel inflation at the start of the year.

Major oil players such as Shell Pilipinas, Caltex, Seaoil, and CleanFuel confirmed a P1.40 per liter increase in diesel prices, while gasoline and kerosene also saw smaller upward adjustments. This ongoing trend reflects both global market movements and local supply dynamics, making fuel prices a major economic talking point nationwide.

Diesel Continues Five-Week Price Hike Confirmed by Oil Firms

The latest fuel price advisory confirms that diesel continues five-week price hike, a pattern that began in late December 2025. Since then, diesel prices have risen steadily each week, resulting in one of the longest uninterrupted streaks of increases in recent months.

While gasoline prices have fluctuated more frequently, diesel — which is widely used by public utility vehicles, trucks, buses, and industrial equipment — has remained on a consistent upward path. This development is especially concerning for sectors that rely heavily on diesel fuel for daily operations.

Industry observers note that diesel price movements often have a broader economic impact compared to gasoline because of diesel’s role in transporting goods and services.

Why Diesel Prices Keep Rising

Several global and regional factors are contributing to the sustained increase in fuel prices, explaining why diesel continues five-week price hike headlines dominate business news.

Global Supply Constraints

Temporary shutdowns in major oil-producing regions, including parts of Kazakhstan, have disrupted supply chains. Reduced output from key suppliers has tightened the availability of crude oil and refined products such as diesel.

Rising International Demand

Economic recovery signals, particularly from China and other Asian economies, have boosted fuel consumption. Higher demand for diesel in manufacturing, logistics, and construction has placed upward pressure on global oil prices.

Seasonal Factors and Weather Conditions

Cold weather in Europe and the United States has increased demand for heating oil, which shares refining capacity with diesel. As refineries adjust production to meet heating needs, diesel supply becomes more constrained.

Geopolitical Tensions

Ongoing geopolitical risks and shipping disruptions continue to create uncertainty in oil markets. These factors contribute to price volatility and reinforce why diesel continues five-week price hike trends persist.

Current Fuel Prices in Metro Manila

Based on fuel monitoring data for the week of January 20 to 26, 2026, prevailing pump prices in Metro Manila range as follows:

• Gasoline (RON97/100): ₱52.90 to ₱73.43 per liter
  
  

• Gasoline (RON95): ₱50.00 to ₱74.69 per liter
  
  

• Gasoline (RON91): ₱49.10 to ₱66.19 per liter
  
  

• Diesel: ₱47.66 to ₱64.25 per liter
  
  

• Diesel Plus: ₱54.50 to ₱74.30 per liter
  
  

• Kerosene: ₱73.70 to ₱94.59 per liter
  
  

So far this year, cumulative fuel price adjustments have reached approximately P3.80 per liter for diesel, further highlighting the impact of the continues five-week price hike trend.

Impact on Motorists and the Economy

The sustained increase in diesel prices affects multiple sectors of society.

Public transport operators and delivery services face higher operating costs, which may eventually translate to fare increase petitions or higher service fees. Small businesses that depend on logistics and distribution are also affected, as fuel expenses eat into profit margins.

For everyday motorists, the diesel continues five-week price hike means tighter budgets and reduced spending flexibility. Many drivers are now reconsidering travel frequency, fuel efficiency practices, and alternative transport options.

Fuel Price Outlook for the Coming Weeks

Analysts say fuel prices may remain volatile as global oil markets respond to supply disruptions and fluctuating demand. While short-term rollbacks are possible, sustained decreases will depend on improvements in global production levels and easing geopolitical tensions.

If current market conditions persist, diesel continues five-week price hike patterns could extend further into February, keeping pump prices elevated.

Conclusion

The fact that diesel continues five-week price hike underscores the fragile balance of global energy markets and their direct impact on Filipino consumers. As fuel prices remain sensitive to international developments, motorists and businesses alike are urged to stay informed and plan ahead.

With diesel playing a critical role in transportation and commerce, any sustained increase has far-reaching consequences. Monitoring weekly fuel price adjustments will remain essential as the country navigates ongoing economic pressures.