The City Government of Zamboanga is pushing for a ban on the transport of fuel using small boats known locally as “jungkung.”

The proposal came after a boat carrying fuel caught fire off the coast of R.T. Lim Boulevard on May 9, 2026.

Mayor Khymer Olaso has directed the city legal officer to study the issuance of an executive order prohibiting the loading of flammable liquids, including fuel, on small vessels bound for nearby islands.

Olaso raised concerns over the safety of transporting flammable materials using small and unregulated boats.

The local chief executive also issued the directive as part of the local government’s intensified efforts against illegal and unsafe fuel handling.

“This happened twice already under my administration. This is my call for safety and protection,“ Olaso said.

Olaso also said only fuel intended for personal use should be allowed while transporting fuel for sale or commercial purposes to island communities should be prohibited to prevent accidents, particularly fire incidents.