Around the world, rising oil prices are being driven by the escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. Disruptions to global oil supply — including threats to key routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20 % of the world’s oil passes — have pushed prices sharply higher in recent weeks. Oil futures have climbed above US $100 per barrel, the highest levels in years, and markets remain volatile as the conflict continues to limit output and shipping capacity.
In the coastal community of Amaya 5, Tanza, Cavite, this global shock is not just a headline — it has become a daily hardship for local fishermen, whose livelihoods depend on affordable fuel.
“Ang mahal ng gasolina, hindi kami makalaot at wala kaming pambili ng gas pati na rin pagkain sa araw-araw. Nangungutang na lang kami sa pinagbibentahan namin ng isda,” said Darren Cañetes, a fisherman from Amaya 5. Fuel that once allowed them to go out to sea now eats up nearly all of their income.
Many fishermen now choose to stay ashore on days when fuel prices spike, knowing that venturing out may cost more than the fish they can catch. To pay for gasoline, fishermen often borrow from fish buyers, putting them deeper into debt and further reducing their already thin profit margins.
“Minsan nakakalabas, madalas hindi. Araw-araw pa rin kami nagbabakasakali sa laot, wala naman kaming maibibili ng bigas. Matitigil na naman kami dahil sa taas ng gasolina ngayon,” Cañetes shared.
Even when they do catch fish, most of the money goes directly toward fuel and basic food like rice. “Oo, patuloy pa rin. Araw-araw naman, kaso lang yung makabawi lang ng gasolina, makabili ng bigas, ganoon,” he said. Many families have cut back on meals; canned goods like sardines have become a staple because they are cheaper and easier to borrow for.
The situation is made worse by the limitations of their small boats. Without larger vessels, they cannot travel far into richer fishing grounds, especially during rough seas. “Hindi kami makapamalakaya ng malalayo, eh wala naman kaming mga bangka na malalaki… hindi kayang makalabas ng bangka namin na maliliit,” Cañetes explained.
Despite everything, many of the fishermen remain hopeful that their story will be hear
