DOE issues anti-hoarding rules amid nat’l energy emergency

The Department of Energy (DOE) on Wednesday said it has issued new operating guidelines to curb the hoarding of petroleum products following the declaration of a State of National Energy Emergency (SNEE).

In a statement, the DOE said the guidelines aim to ensure fuel remains available and accessible to Filipinos.

The agency said it is strengthening safeguards to prevent artificial shortages and ensure the orderly, fair, and efficient distribution of petroleum products.

According to the DOE, the guidelines are intended to deter practices that distort supply, undermine public confidence, and place unnecessary pressure on consumers and the broader economy, as global oil markets remain volatile due to the Middle East conflict.

The DOE’s guidelines include:

• Clear definitions of prohibited acts and indicators of hoarding;
• Preventive measures, such as temporary limits on fuel purchases when necessary and tighter regulation of container-based transactions;
• Enhanced monitoring through the Emergency Petroleum Monitoring System (EPMS) to track inventory levels, supply movements, and fuel distribution; and
• Defined enforcement procedures, including the issuance of show cause orders and timelines for evaluation and case action.

The DOE said it is reconvening its joint task force with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to receive and act on reports of suspected hoarding, determine violations, and initiate appropriate administrative and criminal actions under existing laws.

The agency added that it is coordinating with the Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Fire Protection, and local government units to strengthen nationwide monitoring and enforcement and ensure fuel remains accessible to the public.

“These guidelines are meant to ensure that petroleum products continue to move where they are needed, when they are needed, and at levels that protect consumers, support economic activity, and uphold public order amid the impact of the Middle East conflict on global oil markets,” said Energy Secretary Sharon Garin.

The DOE said the guidelines take effect immediately and will remain in force for the duration of the declared national emergency, unless sooner revoked.—MCG, GMA News