The Department of Energy (DOE), in coordination with the Philippine National Police and local government units (LGU), has intensified its nationwide monitoring and enforcement actions against gasoline stations reportedly imposing excessive petroleum price adjustments despite directives to strictly observe existing fuel pricing rules.
This initiative comes amid heightened volatility in global oil prices arising from the ongoing developments in the Middle East. Since March 6, 2026, the DOE, through the Oil Industry Management Bureau and its Field Offices in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, in coordination with the Philippine National Police and local government units (LGU), has conducted inspections of various establishments and industry participants nationwide.
From these inspections, the Department has recorded seventy-one (71) retail outlets which implemented beyond the above announced price adjustment, hence, failing to comply with the DOE’s directives as provided in the Advisory dated March 6, 2026. From this, 55 Show Cause Orders were issued, and more are expected to be issued in the following days.
In response, the Department has taken appropriate enforcement actions against non-compliant entities. Show Cause Orders were issued directing the concerned companies to explain in writing and under oath, within twenty-four (24) hours, the noted violations. Failure to comply may compel the DOE to suspend or cancel the Certificates of Compliance of the entities concerned and recommend the cancellation of their Mayor’s Permits or Business Permits.
In addition, appropriate criminal actions for violations of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended, and Republic Act No. 8479 may also be instituted. The DOE assures the public that it remains committed to strictly enforcing regulatory standards and holding violators accountable. Monitoring and inspection activities will continue nationwide to ensure that industry participants operate in accordance with the directive of the President and that consumers are protected from unfair or illegal practices.
The public is encouraged to report suspected violations to the Department through the eGovPH App, Hotline 8888, with their LGU, or directly to the DOE through the following channels—Consumer Welfare and Promotion Office at telephone number 8840-2267, DOE Official Facebook Messenger, and email address: cwpo@doe.gov.ph
