Demand for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) went up in parts of Pangasinan as consumers prepare for a possible price increase in March, even as suppliers have yet to implement adjustments.

LPG suppliers adjust prices typically on the first day of every month but no change has been implemented, so far, in March 2026. Despite this, sellers said they have already received word that a price hike may be imminent, though the exact amount remains unclear.

Rhea Gotoc, an LPG retailer, said suppliers have already signaled that prices are expected to go up.

“Nagsabi na ang mga nasa planta na magtaas talaga ng presyo,” she said.

The anticipated increase follows rising concerns over global oil prices after unrest in the Middle East last week. Retailers said the uncertainty has prompted more consumers to buy LPG earlier than usual.

Gotoc said sales in her store have doubled since the start of the week. From selling around 10 LPG tanks per day, demand has risen to more than 20 daily.

“’Yung sales namin nag double up talaga ngayon, maraming bumibili na siguro bilang paghahanda,” she said.

Some households are already preparing alternatives to cope with potential higher fuel costs.

Lydia Flores said her family may resort to more traditional cooking methods to save money.

“Magluto na lang kami sa kahoy lalo na ang kanin,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Department of Energy warned retailers and distributors against hoarding or profiteering amid reports of possible supply irregularities.

Under the Price Act of the Philippines and Presidential Decree No. 1865, hoarding, overpricing, adulteration and other forms of price or supply manipulation of petroleum products are considered illegal and may result in fines and imprisonment.