Dhaka, March 25 -- The Philippines is working with Washington to secure waivers and exemptions so it can obtain oil from US-sanctioned countries to ensure supply, its ambassador to the United States said.

The Philippines, which relies heavily on imported fuel, on Tuesday declared a state of national energy emergency to deal with the fallout from the Middle East war, including oil procurement.

"We are working with the State Department to get waivers or exemptions to purchase oil from US-sanctioned countries," Jose Manuel Romualdez told Reuters in an exchange of phone messages.

Asked if Venezuelan and Iranian oil were part of the discussions, Romualdez said "all options are being considered."

Asked what has been the response from the St...