Fuel-price pressure & policy response: Philippines transport group Piston launched a two-day strike, demanding the government stop fuel price hikes, cut fuel taxes (VAT/excise), roll back prices to P55/liter, and repeal the Oil Deregulation Law—after a P1 jeepney fare increase proved “insufficient” for a living wage. U.S. tax relief amid volatility: Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp suspended the state gas tax for 30 days (and weight limits for commercial vehicles) as pump prices stayed above $4, with the move aimed at easing costs for drivers and small businesses. Oil market jitters: Oil prices climbed for a second straight session as Middle East supply disruption fears tied to the U.S.-Iran standoff outweighed signs of improving exports; Brent held above $105 while WTI stayed near $93. Grid & efficiency momentum: The Pacific Northwest’s energy conservation acquisitions rose 14% in 2025, adding 182 average megawatts of cost-effective savings and helping keep the region on track for its 2022–27 target range. Safety incident: Brisbane’s Wesley Hospital evacuated patients after a suspected gas leak, with hazardous-materials crews on scene. Local fuel-cost snapshots: GasBuddy data showed Connecticut gasoline averaging $4.44/gal (down 2.5 cents week-on-week) while diesel averaged $6.449 nationally.