Proudly Filipino 
Saudi Arabia-based energy giant Aramco has officially entered the Philippine retail fuel market with the opening of its first branded gas station in the country, marking a major step in its expansion across Southeast Asia.
The first Aramco-branded station was inaugurated along Sucat Road in Parañaque City, Metro Manila, on Thursday. The opening came less than a year after Aramco acquired a 25-percent equity stake in Unioil Petroleum Philippines, one of the country’s leading fuel retailers.
The newly launched station is the first of several Aramco-branded fuel stations planned across the Philippines, with additional locations already being developed.
Aramco Expands Global Retail Presence in Philippines
Ziyad Juraifani, Aramco’s vice president for retail, described the opening as an important milestone for the company’s operations in the Philippines.
“We are proud to introduce Aramco’s own retail experience. This is only the beginning of our journey in the Philippines,” Juraifani said during the launch event.
He added that Aramco aims to build a long-term relationship with Filipino consumers through its partnership with Unioil, providing quality fuel products and services backed by the company’s global expertise.
The new station offers Aramco’s premium fuel technology, lubricants, and vehicle care services designed to provide motorists with improved fuel performance and convenience.
Partnership With Unioil Strengthens Philippine Fuel Market
The Aramco-Unioil partnership began in November as part of efforts to strengthen fuel supply and expand retail operations in the Philippines.
Unioil Petroleum Philippines operates a nationwide network of fuel stations and storage facilities. Through the partnership, the company gains access to Aramco’s global energy resources and expertise, while Aramco strengthens its presence in one of Southeast Asia’s growing fuel markets.
Unioil President Kenneth Pundanera said the collaboration brings together a globally recognized energy company and a Filipino brand committed to improving customer experience.
“Aramco and Unioil represent a partnership between one of the world’s most respected brands and a proudly Filipino company that has always believed consumers deserve better,” Pundanera said.
He emphasized that Filipino consumers can expect world-class products, improved services, and more choices in the fuel industry.
Aramco’s Return to the Philippine Market
The opening of the Sucat station marks Aramco’s return to the Philippine energy sector after nearly two decades.
In 2008, Aramco exited the Philippine market after selling its 40-percent stake in Petron Corporation, the country’s largest oil refiner.
The company’s latest investment signals renewed interest in the Philippines as demand for fuel and energy continues to grow.
With its global operations spanning oil production, refining, chemicals, and retail, Aramco is among the world’s largest integrated energy companies.
Impact on Filipino Consumers
The entry of Aramco-branded stations is expected to increase competition in the Philippine fuel industry and provide motorists with additional options for fuel products and services.
Industry observers say stronger competition among fuel retailers may encourage companies to improve product quality, customer service, and pricing strategies.
The expansion also highlights the Philippines’ growing importance as an investment destination for international energy companies.
As Aramco and Unioil continue developing more branded stations nationwide, Filipino motorists may soon see more locations offering the company’s fuel technology and services.
The Sucat opening represents the beginning of Aramco’s broader retail strategy in the Philippines, with plans to establish a stronger presence in the country’s competitive fuel market.
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