Following a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s to protect consumers from surging fuel prices, the Department of Energy (DOE) led on-site inspections at fuel retail stations in Taguig City on June 25.

DOE Officer-in-Charge Sharon S. Garin and officials from the Oil Industry Management Bureau (OIMB) spearheaded the activity as part of the agency’s strengthened consumer protection drive. The inspections aimed to ensure fuel retailers adhere to correct quality and quantity standards and implement price increases in line with the staggered pricing mechanism agreed upon by the industry.

A one-liter sample of each fuel product was taken from the inspected stations for testing at the DOE laboratory. “The Department will evaluate the results and continue to closely monitor fuel retailers to ensure consumer protection and uphold accountability in the downstream oil industry,” the DOE stated. Duplicate samples were also left at the stations for reference.

“Sa ganitong panahon na volatile ang presyo ng langis, higit nating kailangan ang mataas na antas ng malasakit at tapat na serbisyo,” said Garin. “We thank our partners in the fuel industry for their continued commitment to serve the public with integrity and responsiveness. Filipino consumers deserve not only access to fuel, but also fair and honest treatment at the retail price level,” she added.

The DOE said these on-site inspections, both routine and random, are part of its regular oversight. Retailers found with violations such as miscalibrated dispensers, expired permits, or other forms of non-compliance may face administrative sanctions or be referred to local government units for permit suspension or revocation.

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