The Philippines has become the first country to formally declare a national energy emergency over the Iran conflict, signing Executive Order 110 as the Strait of Hormuz closure threatens a nation reliant on the Middle East for up to 98 per cent of its oil.
Around 32,800 pregnant women in Cuba face childbirth amid rolling blackouts, fuel shortages, and a chikungunya outbreak as the island's grid collapses repeatedly.
Cuba has suffered three nationwide blackouts in March 2026 alone, leaving millions without power as an effective oil blockade chokes the island's ageing energy infrastructure.
The IEA has published a 10-point plan urging people worldwide to work from home, reduce speed limits, and cut business flights in response to the worst oil supply disruption in history caused by the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Friday's papers capture a world of contrasts: a devastating energy crisis triggered by Iranian strikes on Gulf infrastructure sends oil prices soaring, while King Charles inaugurates the world's longest coastal walking path.
As Cuba faces a total grid collapse and widespread blackouts, Donald Trump has made bold claims about his influence over the island's future.