The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) have started working with key stakeholders in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sector to advance the implementation of the government’s LPG Cylinder Swapping Program.
In a statement, the DOE said it convened the Regional Philippine Industry Task Force (RPITF) Chairs and various LPG industry associations to discuss the rollout of the program aimed at improving consumer safety.
The meeting focused on the development of guidelines governing the establishment, management, and operation of LPG swapping centers across the country. To speed up the preparation of these guidelines, the participating agencies and industry groups agreed to form a Technical Working Group (TWG).
The LPG Cylinder Swapping Program seeks to remove old, defective, and non-certified LPG cylinders from circulation and replace them with compliant units. Authorities said the initiative is expected to reduce safety risks associated with substandard LPG containers and promote the safe use of LPG among consumers nationwide.
The DOE, represented by Director Rino Abad, and the DTI, represented by Atty. Cindy Tomimbang, led the discussions with industry stakeholders.
According to the DOE, the program forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety standards and ensure that only certified LPG cylinders remain in use throughout the country.