Philippine police file profiteering charges against two gas stations for selling fuel above market rates as oil prices soar due to West Asia conflict.
MANILA: The Philippine National Police has filed profiteering charges against two gas stations for allegedly selling fuel above prevailing market prices amid soaring oil costs linked to the West Asia conflict.
PNP spokesperson Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño confirmed the charges, stating “We already charged two” during a public forum at the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel.
He explained that the cases were filed in the provinces of Nueva Vizcaya and Eastern Samar following citizen reports submitted through the national 911 emergency system.
The Department of Energy has enlisted the PNP to monitor stations that suddenly close during price hikes and to ensure proper implementation of government-mandated price adjustments.
Tuaño also reported that the PNP has recorded 372 gas station closures nationwide, prompting the activation of the Municipal Pricing Coordinating Council, of which the police force is a member, to monitor prices.
Meanwhile, the PNP will deploy personnel to secure distribution sites for government financial aid intended for those affected by the rising fuel prices.
PNP chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered field commanders to ensure the aid reaches its intended beneficiaries without interference.
“We encourage all our kababayan to be wary of scam operations,” Nartatez Jr. said, adding that the police are taking proactive measures to ensure the fuel subsidy is distributed properly.
