By Samantha Yu
MANILA – Malacañang on Sunday announced that 54 gasoline stations are being asked to justify recent price increases, as the government monitors fuel pricing amid the Middle East crisis.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Department of Energy (DOE) issued show-cause orders to determine if the stations defied advisories against raising fuel costs.
“Investigations are ongoing due to reports of widespread price hikes at gas stations,” Castro said. “The DOE’s show-cause orders aim to confirm whether these actions violated government warnings.”
Castro emphasized that violators could face strict consequences, including cancellation of business permits. “Proof of fraudulent acts may lead to revocation of their license to operate,” she noted.
The DOE will coordinate with station operators, highlighting that the intervention seeks to prevent exploitation and maintain fair market practices.
With global oil prices spiking due to the Middle East situation, the government has taken multiple measures to address the impact. Castro underlined President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s message for unity.
“Exploiting the crisis will have repercussions. Legal action and business restrictions are possible,” she warned. “The President encourages cooperation; failure to comply could lead to lawsuits and penalties.”
Consumers are expected to experience higher fuel costs: gasoline could increase by PHP7.48 per liter, diesel by PHP17.28, and kerosene by PHP32.35.
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