The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have joined forces to strictly implement Republic Act No. 11592 or the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Industry Regulation Act (LIRA) to mitigate LPG or cooking gas risks.
The signing of the memorandum of agreement was led by Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla and PNP Chief PGen Benjamin Acorda, which ensures the protection of the interests and general welfare of the public.
“Recognizing the significant risk to both life and property, the government acknowledges the urgent need to ensure that all activities involving the commerce of LPG meet the highest quality and safety standards,” Lotilla said.
“Hence, strict monitoring and enforcement is paramount to mitigate risks associated with LPG operations and promote responsible and sustainable practices within the industry,” he said.
The MOA fosters collaboration and consultation between the DOE and the PNP to establish and enforce the Oplan LIRA.
The PNP, through its Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) shall assist the DOE in the conduct of inspections of LPG facilities, including retailers, refillers, and motor vehicles involved in the transportation of LPG in bulk or LPG cylinders and cartridges.
The PNP shall also investigate potential criminal violations under the LIRA, either upon receiving a report or on its initiative.
This includes conducting surveillance, entrapment, filing search warrant applications, and initiating criminal actions against violators.
The passage of LIRA has prompted the government to shift focus on consumer welfare and protection, where the DOE has prioritized
quality, health, safety, and environmental standards.
“The protection and safeguard of the consumers is our main priority.
Together with the PNP, we will strictly enforce the LIRA with
heightened monitoring and inspections of the industry,” Lotilla said.
Around 15,000 business establishments in the trade of LPG nationwide were issued by the DOE with a license to operate as of end of 2023.
The department continues to accept and process applications for the
issuance of permits to qualified LPG participants to stop the proliferation of illegal establishments and prevent irregular, deceitful, and anomalous trade practices.
