Cops deployed to markets to prevent profiteering, hoarding incidents

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its police visibility in local markets, groceries, and commercial centers to prevent incidents of hoarding and profiteering as the tensions in the Middle East affected oil prices, which could impact prices of basic goods. 

“There are concerns on a possibility of some people taking advantage of the Middle East tensions through profiteering and hoarding of basic commodities. We assure the public that the PNP will exert all legal and necessary measures to help protect consumers,” said PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez in a statement. 

“I have directed our chiefs of police and heads of units to boost the deployment of personnel in local markets, groceries, and supermarkets to prevent any incidents of profiteering and hoarding among sellers and retailers,” he added.

The deployment of police personnel is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla to protect Filipino consumers from the unfair trade practices amid the crisis. 

Further, the PNP said that it will coordinate with the Department of Trade and Industry for the strict monitoring of the suggested retail price  of basic goods and apprehend those violating the Price Act.

“PGEN Nartatez also stated that the police are on standby to prevent any possible incidents of looting, noting that the police presence serves as a deterrent against lawless elements who might exploit the public's anxiety,” the PNP said in a statement. 

The United States and Israel earlier launched joint military operations against Iran, escalating tensions in the region.

The Israeli military said that Iran retaliated with missile strikes toward Israel. The Pentagon has officially designated the American strikes as Operation Epic Fury. 

With oil prices expected to soar due to the tensions, retailers plan another big-time pump price hike starting Tuesday to mark the ninth straight week of increases for gasoline, and the 11th for both diesel and kerosene.

Government offices have also adjusted their work schedules to save energy resources. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/RSJ, GMA Integrated News