The Department of Energy has ordered all oil companies, gasoline stations, and downstream oil industry participants to strictly comply with fuel pricing rules and anti-hoarding regulations, as the government moves to keep the domestic petroleum market stable amid continued monitoring of global oil developments.

The directive was issued under the instruction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure the orderly sale and distribution of petroleum products and to prevent hoarding, profiteering, and premature or unauthorized price increases.

The DOE said the country continues to have enough fuel supply and that proactive measures are in place to preserve stability in the local market.

The agency stressed that gasoline stations are not allowed to implement unscheduled or unauthorized price increases outside established pricing adjustments. Oil companies were also directed to ensure that both company-owned and dealer-operated stations follow DOE directives, including any authorized staggered price adjustments, where applicable.

Pump Price Guardrails

The DOE said gasoline stations must not impose unscheduled price increases outside established adjustment periods.

Oil companies must also ensure that both company-owned and dealer-operated stations follow official directives.

From March 6 to March 9, pump prices must remain within the following ranges:

• Gasoline (RON 97/100): PHP 53.70 to PHP 76.50 per liter
• Gasoline (RON 95): PHP 50.00 to PHP 71.04 per liter
• Gasoline (RON 91): PHP 49.00 to PHP 64.70 per liter
• Diesel: PHP 49.00 to PHP 66.59 per liter
• Diesel Plus: PHP 56.80 to PHP 74.81 per liter
• Kerosene: PHP 78.90 to PHP 99.89 per liter

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said authorities will act against any attempt to exploit the current situation.

“We recognize that the industry operates under challenging global conditions, and we appreciate those who continue to act responsibly. At the same time, we will not allow any party to take advantage of the situation. Fair pricing and adequate supply are a commitment to every Filipino whose daily needs depend on it,” Garin said.

Inspections Intensified Nationwide

To strengthen enforcement, the DOE has requested assistance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police.

Field offices across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao have expanded on-site inspections at gasoline stations.

These checks aim to verify compliance with pricing directives and ensure responsible fuel sales.

The DOE reminded industry participants that hoarding and abnormal sales practices are prohibited under Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865.

Violations may lead to administrative and criminal penalties.

Rules on Fuel Dispensing

The DOE also reiterated rules governing fuel dispensing at retail stations.

Gasoline stations must dispense petroleum products directly into vehicle fuel tanks.

Loading fuel into containers is generally prohibited unless specifically allowed under existing regulations.

The agency warned against practices such as container loading, “bote-bote” sales, and filling drums or gallons for stockpiling purposes.

Authorities said these activities can enable hoarding and illegal resale.

Establishments found violating the rules may face suspension or cancellation of their Certificate of Compliance or License to Operate.

Business permits may also be revoked depending on the severity of the violation.

The DOE said it will continue monitoring the situation closely. The next regular fuel price adjustment is scheduled for March 10, 2026.

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