MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Energy (DOE) on Wednesday said that it has strengthened its anti-hoarding measures with the release of its operating guidelines during a State of National Energy Emergency.
The guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for monitoring, prevention, and enforcement, and are temporary, targeted, and proportionate to the requirements of the State of National Energy Emergency to help ensure that fuel remains available and accessible to Filipinos.
The DOE said these guidelines provide clear definitions of prohibited acts and hoarding indicators; Have preventive measures, such as temporary fuel purchase limits when necessary and
tighter regulation of container-based transactions; Enhanced monitoring through the Emergency Petroleum Monitoring System (EPMS); And defined enforcement procedures, including the issuance of Show Cause Orders and timelines for evaluation and case action.
With this in mind, the DOE said that it is re-convening the DOE–Department of Justice (DOJ) Task Force to receive and act on reports of suspected hoarding, determine violations, and initiate appropriate administrative and criminal actions under existing laws.
The department added that it is also coordinating closely with related agencies and local government units to strengthen nationwide monitoring and enforcement in this issue.
"These guidelines are meant to ensure that petroleum products continue to move where they are needed, when they are needed, and at a level that will help protect consumers, supports economic activity, and upholds public order amid the impact of the Middle East conflict on global oil markets,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.
