403 gas stations closed amid fuel price hikes — PNP

The number of gas stations who have closed amid rising fuel prices has increased to 403, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday. 

“Mula po siya sa 273 noong Miyerkules at umabot na nga po siya sa 403,” PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said at a press briefing.

(From 273 last Wednesday, it increased to 403.)

The PNP has monitored a total of 14,313 gas stations across the country, according to Tuaño.

Tuaño said the closures of gas stations are being investigated in coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE) to determine if hoarding or profiteering is involved.

Tuaño noted that the existing fuel supply is expected to last until mid-April. 

Cases involving illegal fuel selling, hoarding, and profiteering have already been filed in Nueva Vizcaya, Eastern Samar, and Albay.

Earlier, the PNP said it has intensified monitoring of gasoline stations that have reportedly stopped operations.

The PNP expressed concerns about possible hoarding and price manipulation.

“We in the PNP fully understand the situation that gas station owners face amid the challenges brought by the situation in the Middle East,” PNP chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. earlier said.

“But if the sudden closure is for illegal scheme, then expect police action on this matter,” he added. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News