Authorities arrested three men and seized nearly P3.8-million worth of petroleum products and equipment during an anti-smuggling operation in Corcuera, Romblon, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
The operation was conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Romblon Provincial Field Unit in coordination with the Regional Intelligence Division of PRO MIMAROPA, the Philippine Coast Guard, and local police units.
The suspects, identified only through their aliases “Mark,” “Lio,” and “Roger,” were allegedly caught transporting petroleum products and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders without the necessary permits, licenses, or authorization from the Department of Energy and LPG brand owners.
Seized during the operation were 153 LPG cylinders, 145 containers filled with unleaded gasoline, a motorized banca, and a motorized cargo boat locally known as a “batil.” Authorities estimated the total value of the confiscated items at P3,786,000.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the operatives involved in the operation, saying the crackdown forms part of the police organization’s intensified campaign against illegal activities that threaten public safety.
“Hindi lang ito simpleng paglabag sa batas, kundi banta rin sa kaligtasan ng publiko,” Nartatez said, stressing that unauthorized handling and transport of petroleum products could expose communities to serious risks.
He added that the PNP will continue enforcing laws regulating the trade and transport of petroleum products, including Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, Presidential Decree 1865, and Republic Act No. 11592 (LPG Industry Regulation Act).
Police officials said the operation not only disrupted illegal fuel trading activities in the province but also prevented possible accidents and hazards associated with the unregulated storage and transport of flammable materials.
The PNP also reiterated its commitment to intensify law enforcement efforts against illegal trade operations both on land and at sea as part of its broader campaign to protect consumers and maintain public safety under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr..