Authorities have intensified nationwide monitoring of fuel stations as the country grapples with an ongoing oil supply crunch, uncovering hundreds of temporary closures and dozens of suspected violations linked to illegal activities in the petroleum sector.
Latest data from the Philippine National Police (PNP) show that, of the 14,529 gas stations monitored nationwide, 290 have temporarily shut down as of April 26, 2026 due to the ongoing oil supply situation. Authorities have also filed 31 cases involving suspected violations, including hoarding and profiteering.
A breakdown of the cases shows nine incidents of hoarding and one case of profiteering, while the remaining 21 involve other violations such as illegal fuel storage, theft, estafa, trademark infringement, customs-related offenses, and breaches of existing laws, including Presidential Decree No. 1865 and Batas Pambansa Blg. 33.
A total of 77 suspects have been identified across various regions. Some have already been charged in court, while others remain under investigation as authorities continue to build cases.
The intensified monitoring forms part of a broader, coordinated government response aimed at ensuring stable fuel supply and protecting consumers from abusive practices amid ongoing global oil pressures.
Police authorities said operations are being carried out in coordination with regulatory agencies, balancing strict enforcement with public protection and due process.
Monitoring and enforcement efforts will continue nationwide to maintain fair fuel distribution, uphold regulations, and safeguard both consumers and legitimate businesses.