Police arrested three individuals and seized about P1.36 million worth of equipment during an operation against an illegal liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) refilling activity in Marilao, Bulacan.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the operation was carried out on May 21 at a warehouse in Loma de Gato, Marilao, based on a search warrant for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 11592, or the LPG Industry Regulation Act.
During the search, operatives caught three employees allegedly engaged in the unauthorized refilling of LPG cylinders without clearance or authority from legitimate brand owners.
Seized from the warehouse were nine refilling heads, LPG hoses, refilling hoses, a weighing scale, a motor compressor, and a branded LPG cylinder tank allegedly used as a container in the refilling activity.
Authorities estimated the total value of the confiscated equipment at P1.36 million.
Under RA 11592, the refilling of LPG cylinders without authority from registered brand owners is prohibited to protect public safety, ensure product integrity, and regulate the lawful distribution of LPG products.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said strict enforcement of laws covering petroleum products is necessary because illegal LPG operations can endanger communities.
“Ang mahigpit na pagpapatupad ng batas kaugnay ng produktong petrolyo ay mahalaga upang mapanatili ang kaligtasan ng publiko at maiwasan ang anumang kapahamakan,” Nartatez said.
The arrested individuals are now under the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
The PNP said the operation forms part of its intensified campaign against illegal and unsafe commercial practices that pose risks to public welfare.