PNP to probe reported hoarding of oxygen tanks, other medical supplies amid COVID-19 pandemic

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it will investigate the possible hoarding of oxygen tanks and other medical supplies amid the continuing threat of COVID-19.

In a statement, the PNP said its chief, Police General Guillermo Eleazar, has directed police units and offices to investigate and be vigilant against the possible hoarding of these items.

“Makikipagugnayan at tulungan ang PNP sa DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) para silipin ang sinasabing hoarding ng oxygen tanks, lalo na sa Cebu City,” he said.

(The PNP and DTI will coordinate and work together to look into the reported hoarding of oxygen tanks, especially in Cebu City)

According to Eleazar, he directed the Cebu City Police and the Regional Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to closely coordinate with the local DTI office.

Eleazar added that the PNP will also check if there are hoarding of oxygen tanks and other medical supplies in the National Capital Region and other parts of the country.

He issued the order after Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama on Tuesday urged the national government to ask the police and the DTI to look into the supposed hoarding of oxygen tanks.

Eleazar also urged the public to avoid hoarding oxygen tanks and other medical supplies.

“Hindi biro ang sitwasyon natin ngayon. Mga buhay ang nakasalalay sa sapat na suplay ng oxygen tanks. Mas kailangan natin ngayon ang pagkakaisa para pagtulungang mapigilan ang pagdami pa ng kaso ng COVID-19 sa bansa,” he said.

(Our situation now is not a joke. Lives are dependent on sufficient supply of oxygen tanks. We need unity now to stop the further spread of COVID-19 in the country.) — RSJ, GMA News