PNP: 290 gas stations shut amid oil supply concerns

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said 290 gas stations nationwide have temporarily closed amid ongoing oil supply concerns, as authorities continue to monitor fuel outlets and crack down on illegal petroleum-related activities.

In a statement Sunday, the PNP said the figure was based on its latest monitoring of 14,529 gas stations as of April 26.

Police also recorded 31 cases involving alleged violations related to petroleum products, including hoarding, profiteering, and other offenses.

Of these, nine were classified as hoarding, one as profiteering, and 21 involved other violations such as illegal storage, theft, estafa, trademark infringement, customs violations, and breaches of fuel regulations.

Authorities said 77 individuals have been identified as suspects in the reported cases.

The PNP added that some cases have already been filed in court, while others remain under investigation or are still undergoing case buildup.

According to the PNP, the monitoring forms part of the government’s broader response to the oil supply situation and aims to ensure orderly fuel distribution while preventing abuse in the petroleum sector.

“Ang ating ginagawa ay hindi lang pagbabantay, kundi siguraduhin na walang umaabuso sa sitwasyon. We are acting to protect both consumers and legitimate business operators,” PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

(What we are doing is not just monitoring, but ensuring that no one takes advantage of the situation. We are acting to protect both consumers and legitimate business operators.)

The PNP said it will continue to monitor fuel stations nationwide to ensure compliance with regulations and fair distribution of fuel.—MCG, GMA News