'Closed' gas stations due to fuel price surge now 415 —PNP

A total of 415 gas stations across the country are temporarily closed as of Wednesday morning amid the rising fuel prices due to the Middle East tensions, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

The Cordillera Administrative Region recorded the highest number of non-operational gas stations at 78, according to the PNP. This was followed by Cagayan Valley with 50, Central Luzon with 42, Calabarzon with 35, and Bicol with 30. 

The PNP said it is monitoring a total of 14,269 fuel stations.

A complaint of overpricing was earlier reported in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya. A total of three cases have been filed involving alleged hoarding, overpricing, and unfair competition.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police organization is ready to respond to any irregularities.

“Mahigpit nating binabantayan ang sitwasyon. Hindi natin papayagan na samantalahin ito ng ilan para manloko o mang-abuso,” he said.

(We are closely monitoring the situation. We will not allow some individuals to take advantage of this to scam or abuse.)

“Our police forces are on the ground to ensure that order is maintained and that our people are protected,” he said.

Police presence has increased in fuel stations, supply depots, and other critical infrastructure to deter illegal activities and ensure continued access to essential services, according to the PNP.

Authorities are also coordinating with the Department of Energy (DOE) and local price monitoring bodies to track fuel supply and pricing.

The PNP urged the public to continue normal activities, practice responsible fuel use, and rely on official channels for updates —VAL, GMA Integrated News