The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced Friday that it has intensified monitoring of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) retailers to prevent profiteering as supply tightens amid the ongoing energy crunch.
PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the directive is aimed at protecting consumers from artificial price increases.
“I have directed our local police to heighten monitoring of retailers to prevent hoarding and price manipulation of LPG amid the present energy challenges that we are facing,” he stated.
Nartatez added that police units are coordinating with local government units and concerned agencies to curb hoarding and profiteering, warning that violators will face appropriate charges.
“While the national government is exhausting all measures to help, we in the PNP will also make sure that consumers are always protected,” he emphasized.
Earlier, the Department of Energy (DOE) cautioned that LPG supply may last only up to 24 days, including incoming deliveries.
Data as of March 20 showed gasoline and diesel stocks remain sufficient based on average daily consumption, but LPG continues to face tighter supply conditions.
In Metro Manila, LPG prices this month range from ₱825 to over ₱1,000 per standard tank, according to DOE figures.
Authorities said the stepped-up monitoring forms part of broader efforts to stabilize supply and shield consumers from exploitative practices as energy-related pressures persist.