NBI to probe alleged hoarding of oxygen tanks, medical supplies

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to probe into and file charges against suspected hoarders of oxygen tanks and other medical supplies.

In a department order issued on Wednesday, Guevarra said the investigation would focus on Cebu and other parts of the country where COVID-19 cases are high or are expected to rise.

NBI officer-in-charge Eric Distor was tasked to submit an initial update on the investigation within 10 days. 

Guevarra’s directive comes after the Philippine National Police (PNP) launched a separate probe in light of Cebu City Vice Mayor Michael Rama’s revelation on Tuesday about the supposed hoarding of oxygen tanks amid the COVID-19 crisis.

On Wednesday, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez warned erring distributors and hoarders of oxygen tanks that the department would also be running after them.

Lopez, however, assured the public that there is no shortage of oxygen supply.

“Current industry capacity is about three times more than the current demand. There is a surplus from the producers' side,” he said.

“Based on reports from industry, for now, the increase in demand for cylinder tanks is coming more from the households trying to buy for their personal need, either current or potential emergency need.” — Virgil Lopez/RSJ, GMA News