2 suspects arrested for oil pilferage in Agusan del Norte

Two people were arrested in Tubay, Agusan del Norte for oil pilferage, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Saturday. 

"Seized during the operation were petroleum products and equipment, including a tanker truck, with an estimated value of ₱3.12 million," said the PNP.

"The suspects are now under police custody for proper legal proceedings," added the PNP.

The PNP said that enforcement efforts are being carried out in coordination with the Department of Energy and the respective Local Price Monitoring Council of local government units to ensure accurate monitoring, fair pricing, and sufficient supply at the community level.

“Ang layunin natin ay mapanatili ang kaayusan at matiyak na walang naaabuso sa sitwasyon. Hindi ito panahon para manlamang, kundi panahon para magtulungan. The PNP will continue to enforce the law fairly and ensure that those who violate it are held accountable," said PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.

(Our goal is to maintain order and ensure that no one is being abused in the situation. This is not a time to take advantage, but a time to cooperate. The PNP will continue to enforce the law fairly and ensure that those who violate it are held accountable.)

"Tuloy-tuloy ang ating monitoring at koordinasyon para maiwasan ang anumang pananamantala,” he added.

(Our monitoring and coordination is ongoing to prevent any exploitation.)

The PNP also reminded the public to stay informed and vigilant, especially as ongoing global tensions continue to affect oil production and distribution, with corresponding impact on local supply.

The PNP, meanwhile, reported that 300 gasoline stations out of 14,527 nationwide have temporarily closed as of April 17, 2026.

Authorities have also filed 26 cases involving fuel-related violations, including 7 cases of hoarding, 1 case of profiteering, and 18 other offenses covering illegal storage, transport, and trading of petroleum products since March 1. —VAL, GMA News