The Department of Energy (DOE) has implemented a 60-day price freeze on basic petroleum products, such as 11-kg liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene, across the entire province of Cebu following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck yesterday, September 30.
The enforcement of the price freeze is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to fully mobilize all government efforts for the relief and rescue of affected residents.
By ensuring price stability, the DOE seeks to protect households from undue economic burden and guarantee the continued availability of essential fuel products that are critical in cooking, lighting, and other immediate recovery needs.
Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin emphasized that strict monitoring will be carried out to ensure full compliance by retailers and distributors.
The DOE, in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and local government units, will be conducting inspections to prevent overpricing and profiteering during this critical period.
Violators will face appropriate penalties under existing laws.
The DOE also assures the public that there is sufficient supply of petroleum products in the province and that distribution channels are being closely coordinated with oil companies and local authorities to ensure uninterrupted access to consumers, particularly in evacuation centers and hardest-hit communities.
“Stability of fuel prices and availability of supply are vital in times of disaster. The Department is working closely with all partners to make sure that families and frontliners have access to the essential energy resources they need during relief and recovery operations,” Secretary Garin said.
Regular advisories will be released to keep the public updated on the status of petroleum supply, enforcement activities, and other energy-related measures being implemented in Cebu in the aftermath of the earthquake.
