PNP logs 415 gas station closures amid oil supply crisis
The Philippine National Police reported 415 gas station closures across the nation as of March 25, attributed to the oil supply crisis stemming from the Middle East conflict. The Cordillera Administrative Region saw the highest number of closures. The PNP also noted cases of hoarding, overpricing, and unfair competition amidst the crisis.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that 403 gasoline stations nationwide have temporarily ceased operations as of March 23, 2026, due to rising fuel prices linked to Middle East conflicts, particularly the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This represents a significant increase from the 273 stations reported closed the previous week, out of 14,313 monitored stations across the country. The closures are concentrated mostly in provincial areas, though specific regional breakdowns including the Cordillera Administrative Region were not detailed in the latest reports.
PNP spokesperson PBGen. Randulf Tuano confirmed the closures and noted that fuel supply was expected to last until mid-April. The Department of Energy (DOE) has launched investigations into approximately 400 gasoline stations to determine whether the shutdowns result from legitimate operational constraints like delayed deliveries or from illegal activities including hoarding, profiteering, and price manipulation. DOE Undersecretary Felix Fuentebella emphasized the importance of keeping stations open to ensure fuel availability and warned of possible sanctions for violations.
The PNP has already filed cases related to illegal fuel activities in several regions including Nueva Vizcaya, Eastern Samar, and Albay, targeting schemes like hoarding and unfair competition. Authorities are coordinating between the PNP, DOE, and local government units to verify inventory levels and ensure compliance with pricing regulations at affected stations. The government maintains that national fuel inventory remains above minimum requirements despite the distribution challenges.
While the Philippine government insists there is no oil crisis, it has formed a special committee to avert potential fuel supply shortages. The situation stems from geopolitical tensions in West Asia affecting global oil markets, but authorities emphasize that the primary issues involve distribution and compliance rather than overall supply shortages. The DOE continues to monitor the situation closely, working to stabilize fuel distribution while addressing illegal practices that exacerbate the impact of rising global oil prices on local consumers.
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