Philippines' Marcos says may have to turn to Russia to fuel fuel

MANILA - Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos JrMarcos Jr said on Wednesday that his nation may need to turn to Russia to fulfill its fuel needs amid rising global energy prices, bucking pressure from Western allies for countries to shun Moscow.

Marcos, who is also Agriculture Minister, said the Philippines may deal with Russia for fertiliser.

We take a balanced view because we may have to deal with Russia for fuel, for fertiliser, said Marcos.

The Philippines like many countries is grappling with soaring inflation due to supply woes fanned by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Philippines, a US defence ally, hasn't imposed any sanctions on Russia.

Marcos, son and namesake of the ousted late strongman who has been ruled the Philippines for two decades, said he wanted his country to play a key role in promoting regional peace amid the challenges of North Korea and China-Taiwan tensions.

He said that we hope to be part of leading, the ones that are leading the effort for peace.