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Composite image: Police chief Nartatez (as seen on Mar. 14, 2026) ordered local police chiefs to monitor gasoline stations that have suddenly stopped operations amid suspicions of hoarding or price manipulation.
Vladimir Razguliaev via Canva; PNP PIO
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police is monitoring gasoline stations that suddenly stopped operations amid suspicions of possible hoarding or price manipulation as global oil prices rise.
The Department of Energy requested the PNP's assistance in checking gas stations that may attempt to take advantage of the situation following tensions in the Middle East.
Some motorists and social media users earlier reported the unannounced closure of several fuel stations, prompting calls for authorities to investigate potential hoarding or illegal price schemes.
Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities would take action if closures were linked to illegal activities.
"We in the PNP fully understand the situation that gas station owners face amid the challenges brought by the situation in the Middle East. But if the sudden closure is for an illegal scheme, then expect police action on this matter," the police chief, said in a statement Sunday, as quoted on PNA.
He ordered local police chiefs nationwide to coordinate with local government units and the DOE to determine the circumstances behind the closures.
The PNP said it has stepped up monitoring efforts following public complaints and reports from motorists.
Nartatez said the move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to prevent hoarding and profiteering amid the ongoing global oil market volatility.
Authorities have also set up help desks across the country where motorists can report concerns involving fuel stations.
"We assure the public that the PNP has contingencies in place to ensure peace and order is not affected by the effects of the conflict in Iran or the rising fuel prices," Nartatez said.
Oil price pressure. Authorities have heightened monitoring as global oil prices remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions affecting supply and shipping routes.
Energy officials earlier warned that fuel prices in the Philippines may rise sharply in the coming week, reflecting movements in international crude markets.
The Philippines imports most of its petroleum requirements, making domestic pump prices sensitive to global oil price fluctuations.
