Aramco returns to the Philippines with 25% Unioil stake, ₱4B expansion
What's the deal? Saudi AramcoDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → opens its first branded fuel station in the Philippines on July 16 in Parañaque, marking the world's largest oil producer's direct return to the country's retail market after a 17-year absence. The move follows its 25% acquisition of Unioil Petroleum PhilippinesDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → and a 4 billion peso investment to expand the local network.
Why now? Aramco exited the Philippine downstream sector in 2008, selling its 40% stake in PetronDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → Corp., the country's largest refiner. Its return signals confidence in the country's economic growth and rising fuel demand.
What's the endgame? By buying 25% of Unioil in 2025 and committing 4 billion pesos, Aramco gains an established network of 165 retail stations without building from scratch. Select stations will carry its ProForce fuel brand and ValvolineDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → lubricants, targeting consumers seeking premium options.
The rollout: The first station opens on Sucat Road in Parañaque, converting an existing Unioil location. Unioil president Kenneth C. Pundanera confirmed the launch, which is expected to be the first of a wider expansion across the Philippines.
The market: Analysts said Aramco's return signals renewed institutional confidence in the country's economic trajectory and energy demand. Rising fuel consumption and Unioil's 165-station footprint give the company immediate scale in a high-growth Southeast Asian market.
The signal: Aramco has been pursuing international downstream deals to secure long-term captive markets for its crude. The Philippine re-entry diversifies revenue beyond crude production into higher-margin retail and extends its footprint in emerging markets beyond the Middle East.
Read more: Meyka
