Filipino residents in Toronto say rising gas prices are forcing them to make difficult financial decisions, from cutting back on leisure activities to reducing everyday expenses, as global tensions continue to drive uncertainty in the oil market.
In Little Manila, where many Filipino families live and work, the impact is being felt in daily routines. Residents say higher fuel costs are not only limiting mobility, but also affecting how they budget for essentials.
For Jeyson Armendez, a father supporting family both in Canada and abroad, the rising cost of gas has made it harder to balance daily expenses with financial responsibilities back home.
“In the past, we could go anywhere just to unwind and relieve stress,” Armendez said. “But now that gas prices have gone up, everything is limited, so we’re trying to save money.”
Gas prices in Toronto have been rising in recent days and are expected to increase further, as escalating tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt global oil markets. The situation intensified earlier this week after the United States signalled plans to increase military pressure on Iran, while Iran responded with new attacks on Israel and Gulf countries.
For Gina Romuar, a Filipina resident and mother, those global developments translate into immediate, everyday sacrifices at home. She said the rising cost of gas is also affecting how she manages her household budget.
“We’ve also had to cut back on groceries for my child,” Romuar said.
Iranian officials have also threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route that carries about 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global energy flows. Any disruption in the region could significantly impact fuel availability and prices worldwide.
For Monching Bueno, a father and resident in the area, cutting back on driving is not an option despite rising costs. He said his vehicle remains essential for both work and family responsibilities.
“My car is very important. It’s essential not just for my job, but also for dropping off and picking up my kids,” Bueno said. “We have to keep going. It’s not like my children can stop going to school, and I can’t just stop working.”
For Gabby Amurao, a business owner of Porkies Chicharon, the rising cost of fuel is also shaping how she spends and moves around the city. She said she has begun limiting non-essential outings to cope with the added expenses.
“If it’s not important, I just stay home. Even parties or social gatherings, I really limit going out,” Amurao said.
Although oil prices dipped slightly following recent political developments, uncertainty remains high, leaving many residents to adjust their habits as they wait to see how the situation unfolds.
Romuar said those adjustments now include rethinking even short trips.
“If it’s just nearby, we won’t drive anymore, we’ll just walk,” she said.
Amurao added that she is also considering alternative ways of getting around as the weather improves.
“Maybe bike, especially this summer,” she said.
Across the Filipino community in Toronto, the response has largely been to spend less, travel less, and find ways to stretch already tight budgets.
For Armendez, the financial pressure is compounded by responsibilities beyond Canada. Despite rising costs, he said supporting his family in the Philippines remains a priority.
“We really need to lessen our spending,” Armendez said. “We still have to send money back home to our families in the Philippines.”
