The Department of Energy (DOE) has rolled out stricter anti-hoarding guidelines for the downstream oil sector as it moves to secure fuel supply and prevent artificial shortages amid global market volatility.

Issued on April 1, the new Operating Guidelines Against Hoarding apply during a declared State of National Energy Emergency (SNEE) and are designed to ensure petroleum products remain available and accessible, particularly as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to affect global oil markets.

The DOE said the rules target both commercial hoarding by industry players and panic-driven stockpiling by consumers, which can disrupt supply chains and inflate market pressures. The policy reinforces the agency’s mandate under Republic Act No. 7638 and Republic Act No. 8479, alongside Executive Order No. 110, s. 2026.

Under the guidelines, the DOE sets clearer definitions of prohibited acts and introduces indicators to detect hoarding behavior. It also outlines preventive measures, including the possible imposition of temporary fuel purchase limits and tighter controls on container-based transactions.

Monitoring will be strengthened through the Emergency Petroleum Monitoring System (EPMS), which will track inventory levels, supply movements, and distribution nationwide. Enforcement mechanisms include the issuance of Show Cause Orders and defined timelines for case evaluation and action.

To support enforcement, the DOE is reactivating its task force with the Department of Justice to handle reports of suspected violations and pursue administrative and criminal cases when warranted. The agency is also coordinating with the Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Fire Protection, and local government units to expand oversight across the country.

The DOE emphasized that the measures are temporary and calibrated to the conditions of the energy emergency, maintaining alignment with the country’s market-based oil industry framework.

“These Guidelines are meant to ensure that petroleum products continue to move where they are needed, when they are needed, and at a level that protects consumers, supports economic activity, and upholds public order amid the impact of the Middle East conflict on global oil markets,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.

The department said it continues to monitor fuel supply conditions and urged the public to avoid panic buying, stressing that purchases should remain within normal requirements.

The guidelines took effect immediately and will remain in force for the duration of the SNEE unless earlier lifted.

What do you think—will tighter monitoring and purchase limits be enough to prevent fuel supply distortions during global oil shocks?

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.