The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it filed two cases of alleged profiteering against two gas stations amid rocketing oil prices due to the Middle East conflict.
“We already charged two,” said PNP Public Information Chief and spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño at the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel forum.
When pressed for details, Tuaño said these cases were recorded in Nueva Vizcaya and Eastern Samar.
These gas station owners were accused of selling their gas products at exorbitant prices compared to prevailing market rates.
Tuaño did not provide further details on the two alleged profiteering cases but noted that the incidents stemmed from reports made by concerned citizens through the 911 emergency call system.
The PNP was tapped by the Department of Energy to gather information on gas stations that suddenly closed amid the price hikes and whether retailers were properly observing the implementation of the increases.
The police official also noted that the PNP has so far recorded 372 gas stations that suspended operations across the country.
Tuaño added that the Municipal Pricing Coordinating Council, where the PNP is a member, had convened to help monitor prices.
Prowling scammers will find no room to operate, as the PNP is set to deploy dedicated personnel to guard distribution sites for the national government’s financial assistance to those affected by soaring fuel prices amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
