Motorists took another hit at the pumps as fuel prices rose for the second straight week amid surging global demand and escalating geopolitical tensions.

Effective Tuesday morning, fuel retailers increased pump prices by P1.70 per liter for gasoline, P2.70 per liter for diesel, and P2.10 per liter for kerosene.

According to the Department of Energy (DoE), the price hike reflected developments in the global oil market, particularly stronger refinery demand and renewed geopolitical tensions.

“Stronger refinery demand contributed to a counter-seasonal US crude oil inventory draw,” said Rodela Romero, director at the DoE’s Oil Industry Management Bureau.

“Oil also soared on prospects of new US sanctions against Russian oil companies Rosneft and Lukoil, as announced by President Trump. Unresolved issues between Russia and Ukraine continue to heighten geopolitical risks,” Romero added.

The latest round of price hikes followed last week’s increase of P1.20 per liter for gasoline, P2 for diesel, and P1.70 for kerosene, adding more pressure on motorists and transport operators already grappling with rising operating costs.