The Department of Energy (DOE) has issued the Special Operating Guidelines for Fuel Retail Station Monitoring and Inspection Conducted by Deputized Agencies to strengthen field monitoring at fuel retail stations and ensure that inspection activities are carried out in a disciplined, coordinated, and orderly manner.
The issuance of the Guidelines forms part of the DOE’s continuing efforts to protect the public interest and preserve the smooth and uninterrupted distribution of petroleum products amid heightened volatility in global oil supply brought by the developments in the Middle East. By establishing clear protocols for deputized agencies, the DOE aims to uphold fuel quality and fair practices, while maintaining normal station operations without disruption to the public.
To strengthen on-the-ground monitoring, the DOE has deputized local government units (LGUs), the Philippine National Police (PNP), the National Electrification Administration (NEA), and the National Power Corporation (NPC) to assist in fuel station monitoring and inspection activities nationwide.
Under the Guidelines, deputized agencies are directed to coordinate closely with the DOE in the conduct of inspections, properly identify themselves and clearly communicate the purpose of their visit, observe fuel inventory levels, daily sales, and dispensing practices, verify unusual or bulk purchases when necessary, and document their observations for submission to the DOE for evaluation and appropriate action.
The Guidelines likewise recognize the legitimate fuel requirements of essential sectors, including hospitals, transport, agriculture, telecommunications, and government services. Fuel purchases for valid operational needs remain allowed, subject to proper verification, to ensure that monitoring measures do not impede critical services and economic activity.
All inspection findings shall be submitted to the DOE, which remains the lead agency for monitoring, evaluation, and enforcement. Deputized agencies may also assist, upon DOE endorsement, in carrying out enforcement actions, including the implementation of Cease and-Desist Orders, and are directed to report any observed discrepancies in fuel pricing for verification and appropriate action.
The Department emphasized that the Guidelines are intended to bolster coordinated monitoring nationwide and improve the government’s capacity for accurate reporting, timely evaluation, and responsive enforcement, while maintaining orderly market operations and protecting consumer access to fuel.
