Manila: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) will visit depots of oil firms to ensure that petroleum products are legally imported amid the rising prices of oil due to the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Customs spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip Maronilla stated that the bureau is coordinating with importers of petroleum products to check their current supply.

According to Philippines News Agency, Maronilla explained that the BOC will conduct visits using the visitorial powers of the Commissioner. The visits aim to ensure that the contents of the depots of various petroleum companies are legally imported and that no abuses are taking place. The Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Energy will assist in these efforts.

When asked about any suspicious activities or irregularities in fuel importations, Maronilla mentioned that none have been detected so far. He assured that the import records of vessels appear to be correct, and the supply is still incoming. The focus is on monitoring at the depot level to ensure accurate supply reporting, which is crucial for the government to assess the needs of the people and prevent hoarding or abuse.

Maronilla urged the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying of petroleum products. He emphasized that the government, along with its partners and the Bureau of Customs, is actively monitoring the situation to prevent unscrupulous businessmen from exploiting the current crisis.