Unang Balita sa Unang Hirit: (Part 2) MARCH 9, 2026 [HD]

Brief Summary

The news report covers several pressing issues: the anticipated fuel price hike causing panic buying, President Marcos's working visit to New York to campaign for a UN Security Council seat and address the Middle East crisis, potential electricity price increases, and a discussion on the Safe Spaces Act, highlighting various forms of gender-based sexual harassment.

• Fuel price hike leads to panic buying and supply shortages.
• President Marcos campaigns for a UN Security Council seat and addresses the Middle East crisis.
• Electricity prices may increase due to rising international coal, oil, and LNG prices.
• The Safe Spaces Act aims to protect individuals from gender-based sexual harassment in various settings.

Fuel Price Hike and Panic Buying

Many are worried about the expected large increase in fuel prices. Some petrol stations are already running out of supply as people rush to fill up early. Several petrol stations along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City are already out of diesel. Motorists are queuing at other petrol stations to fill their tanks before the price increase. One petrol station in Old Balara, Quezon City, ran out of diesel yesterday, only offering premium diesel at P73 per litre.

Diesel Shortages and Impact on Drivers

A petrol station in Fairview has run out of diesel since yesterday afternoon, with many public utility vehicles (PUVs) affected. UV Express driver Merlito is concerned about the diesel shortage, as it affects his daily income. He will have to find petrol stations with lower prices. Other motorists are also queuing to fill up before the price hike. Iris, a school service driver, is filling up to take advantage of the current diesel price. Edwin, who uses his van to transport goods, says he may have to resort to using a motorcycle if prices increase significantly.

Government Response and Reminders

The Department of Energy (DOE) has reminded petrol stations to strictly adhere to regulations on fuel prices and prohibits hoarding. Many drivers are being advised by petrol pump attendants to seek fuel elsewhere due to shortages.

President Marcos's Visit to New York

President Bongbong Marcos arrived in New York for a two-day working visit. He will address a special plenary session of the United Nations to campaign for the Philippines to secure a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2027-2028. Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Babes Romales emphasised the importance of the Philippines gaining a seat, stating it would give the Philippines a voice on global issues such as the conflict in the Middle East and the West Philippine Sea issue. The President will also call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in the Middle East, which is affecting the Philippine economy and its overseas workers.

Government Measures and Appeals

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro announced that the Department of Energy issued Show Cause Orders to 54 petrol stations for illegally increasing prices. Malacanang warned against taking advantage of the Middle East conflict to raise prices. President Marcos will request emergency powers from Congress to temporarily reduce the excise tax on imported petroleum products to lower prices. Ambassador Romualdez highlighted the importance of resolving the Middle East conflict quickly to protect the economy and overseas workers. Undersecretary Castro urged the public not to exploit the situation, warning of legal consequences for those who do. The President will also meet with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and speak at the 7-year session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

Potential Electricity Price Increase

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) warns of a possible increase in electricity prices due to the anticipated oil price hike. The Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) projects a potential increase in the wholesale electricity spot market (WESM), especially if international coal, oil, and liquefied natural gas prices rise. The ERC is monitoring electricity prices to prevent consumer abuse.

Safe Spaces Act and Gender-Based Sexual Harassment

The report discusses the Safe Spaces Act, which prohibits all forms of gender-based sexual harassment. Brennaline recounts an incident of unwanted touching while on a jeepney. Ara and Jenna share experiences of catcalling and unwanted remarks. The Safe Spaces Act, or Bawal Bastos Law, aims to protect the dignity of every person and prohibits gender-based sexual harassment in public spaces, workplaces, educational institutions, and online. This includes catcalling, unwanted remarks, persistent requests for personal details, and sexual jokes.

Online Sexual Harassment and Public Awareness

Online sexual harassment involves using technology to intimidate through physical, psychological, and emotional threats, including offensive comments in public posts or private messages, and cyberstalking. Some people are unaware of the Safe Spaces Act. Some netizens believe that dressing modestly is necessary to earn respect, while others argue that respect should not be based on attire. Women who have experienced harassment believe more public awareness of the Safe Spaces Act is needed.

Ann Ortiz and Congressman Bong Suntay Controversy

Ann Ortiz does not accept Congressman Bong Suntay's apology, calling it a "non-apology." She finds his use of her name vulgar and sexualised. She calls on the House Ethics Committee to address Suntay's actions and is considering legal action. Ann accepts the apology of Suntay's wife and asks that his family not be involved in the controversy. Several celebrities have shown support for Ann.