Authorities arrested two individuals and confiscated a tanker truck carrying an estimated P2.62 million worth of diesel in a crackdown against the illegal trade of petroleum products in Marinduque, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
The operation was carried out on June 17, 2026, in Barangay Amoingon, Boac, Marinduque, led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) provincial field unit in coordination with local police units.
The suspects—aged 30 and 28, both residents of Tiaong, Quezon—were apprehended while allegedly transporting around 8,000 liters of diesel using a tanker truck without authorization from the Department of Energy (DOE).
Police said the operation stemmed from violations of laws prohibiting the unauthorized trading and distribution of petroleum products, particularly Section 3(h) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree 1865, which penalizes unfair trade practices in essential commodities.
Authorities also seized the tanker truck used in the transport of the fuel, which is now subject to further investigation.
The PNP said the operation reflects its broader campaign under its transformation roadmap, focusing on strengthened field enforcement and coordinated law enforcement actions against economic crimes.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that illegal trading of fuel products will not be tolerated, underscoring continued operations against violators.
“Strict enforcement of laws on illegal trade of petroleum products remains a priority,” he said. “Hindi natin kukunsintihin ang ilegal na pagbebenta ng mga produktong saklaw ng batas. Tuloy-tuloy ang pagpapatupad ng batas para sa kapakanan ng publiko.”
The PNP said the operation is part of its continuing efforts to curb illegal economic activities in line with the administration’s directive to strengthen regulatory compliance in the energy sector.