The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that 403 gasoline stations nationwide have temporarily shut down operations as fuel prices continue to rise.
PNP spokesperson PBGen. Randulf Tuaño said the closures are part of the 14,313 fuel stations currently being monitored in coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE) to guard against hoarding and profiteering.
“‘Yung pagsasara nagsimula siya sa 273 noong Miyerkules at umabot na nga siya sa 403,” he noted.
Tuaño added that the data has been turned over to the DOE for verification, including whether any closures are linked to illegal practices.
“Dinirekta natin ito sa Department of Energy sapagkat sila ang nagde-determine ng possible hoarding ng mga gasolinahan… Kaya binigay natin ‘to para sila ang mag determine kung ang naturang pagsasara ng 403 ay may kaugnayan sa possible hoarding ng nasabing mga gas stations,” he said.
Despite the shutdowns, initial information suggests petroleum supply remains sufficient, with stocks expected to last until April 15.
Authorities are continuing investigations, particularly following arrests in Nueva Vizcaya, Eastern Samar, and Guinobatan, Albay for alleged illegal fuel sales, hoarding, and profiteering.
The PNP assured the public that monitoring will continue to protect consumers from abusive practices.
Malacañang maintained that the country is not facing an oil crisis, but a “disruption” in fuel prices due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.