• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) is implementing contingency measures to protect domestic fuel security in collaboration with the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Trade and Industry, and the local government units (LGUs).
In a statement, PRO-NIR Director PBrig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay said the initiative aims to secure fuel supply stability and maintain peace and order amid global oil market uncertainties linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Police will monitor fuel prices and ensure that the distribution complies with government regulations, Ibay said.
Joint teams will conduct regular checks on gas stations and fuel depots to prevent hoarding, illegal selling, and profiteering.
They will also enforce the “direct-to-tank” policy, which bans dispensing fuel into handheld containers like bottles and drums.
The DOE earlier warned oil companies and retailers of a premature increases in fuel prices before it shoots up on March 10.
Ibay said the PRO-NIR is closely coordinating with concerned agencies and LGUs to ensure that fuel supply remains stable and the public is protected from any unlawful activities that may arise from market volatility.
As part of contingency plans, PRO-NIR has increased security at fuel storage facilities and distribution hubs while boosting police presence in public areas to deter opportunistic crimes, he added. | GB
