Authorities watch possible gas station schemes amid price surge
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and Department of Energy (DOE) are investigating gas stations for potential hoarding and price manipulation amidst a global price surge, following reports of unannounced closures and public concern.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and Department of Energy (DOE) have launched a joint crackdown on gas stations suspected of hoarding, price manipulation, and unannounced closures amid a global oil price surge in early March 2026. The investigation was triggered by reports of gas stations suddenly closing operations (termed 'ghosting' motorists) and implementing premature price hikes as global oil prices exceeded $100 per barrel due to Middle East tensions. PNP Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered intensified patrols and coordination with DOE and local government units to monitor approximately 14,000 gas stations nationwide.
On March 9, 2026, the DOE issued show-cause orders to 54 gas stations requiring them to explain recent fuel price increases and alleged hoarding activities. One gas station in Pasig City was given a 24-hour deadline to explain after allegedly hiking gasoline prices by over 54%. The DOE warned that penalties could include permit revocation for stations found guilty of fraud or manipulation. The government expected significant price increases, with diesel potentially rising by P20 per liter and gasoline by P10 per liter, to be implemented in staggered increments.
PNP intelligence teams have been deployed to monitor warehouses and storage facilities, with specialized units including the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, Maritime Group, and Highway Patrol Group participating in the nationwide operation. PNP Chief Nartatez warned that gas station managers and personnel found withholding supply could face arrest for hoarding and profiteering. The police have established help desks to receive public complaints and encouraged citizens to report suspicious closures through the eGovPH app.
The crackdown follows directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla. The situation has caused panic buying among motorists, with queues forming at gas stations across Metro Manila and other regions as people rushed to fill their tanks ahead of expected price increases. The PNP maintains that monitoring will continue until fuel supply stabilizes, balancing business interests with consumer protection during the global oil crisis.
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