Manila: Malaca±ang has issued a stern warning to gasoline stations that are charging 'unreasonable' prices, indicating that they may face sanctions as the government steps up monitoring efforts in response to the ongoing Middle East crisis.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced during a media briefing that the Department of Energy (DOE) has sent show-cause orders to 54 gas stations to investigate potential violations of government mandates against escalating fuel prices.
Castro explained that the DOE's actions are intended to ensure compliance with the government's warnings, stating, 'Ngayon po, isinasagawa po ngayon dahil nagka-problema po at marami daw po yatang mga gasoline stations na nagtaas ng presyo,' signifying the seriousness of the issue at hand. She further emphasized that the government is prepared to take strict measures against any violations, including the possible revocation of permits for those found guilty of price manipulation.
The ongoing Middle East crisis has led to global oil price surges, prompting the Philippine government to adopt several contingency measures. Castro highlighted the importance of cooperation during these challenging times, referencing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call for unity. She also warned against exploiting the situation, cautioning that violators could face lawsuits and lose their business opportunities.
Consumers have been informed to brace for significant increases in fuel prices, with projections indicating that gasoline could rise by PHP7.48 per liter, diesel by PHP17.28 per liter, and kerosene by PHP32.35 per liter.
In a related development, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has condemned what he terms as 'blatant price hikes' in retail fuel prices, urging the DOE to investigate whether these price increases accurately reflect the cost of fuel inventories held by oil companies. Gatchalian highlighted the severe impact of these price surges on drivers, workers, and ordinary citizens, calling for immediate action to address the issue.
