Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation-Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-SEMRO) arrested two men for allegedly refilling butane gas canisters illegally in Panabo City, Davao del Norte on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.

NBI-SEMRO reportedly caught the suspects in the act of refilling butane canisters inside an abandoned house in Barangay Gredu. Authorities said the suspects had been using the house as a makeshift refilling station.

Up to 1,600 butane gas canisters, more than 10 large LPG tanks, and several decanting machines were seized during the operation.

NBI-SEMRO said the operation stemmed from a complaint filed by the owner of a legitimate butane brand whose canisters were allegedly being used and refilled illegally.

“Sabihin na natin na unfilled to, ilalagay lang nila diyan. Kunyari ito apat, the same thing dito. So, they can produce four butane canisters in a matter of seconds. They fabricate this purposely for decanting. Pero this is not the appropriate gadgets,” NBI-SEMRO Spokesperson, Ely Leano, said.

The illegally refilled butane canisters were reportedly sold at prices lower than those of legitimate brands.

The suspects arrested, 32 and 27 years old, reportedly admitted to the illegal activity, saying they had been doing it for the past two years.

“Tinuod na, gipasugo lang pud to,” one of the suspects said.

The suspects will face charges for trademark infringement under the Intellectual Property Code, unfair competition, and violation of the LPG Industry Regulation Act.

NBI is still investigating the personalities behind the illegal refilling operation.

Authorities reminded the public to buy only legitimate butane gas canisters to avoid accidents such as explosions or fires caused by illegally refilled canisters.