DOE warns LPG retailers against overpricing

INQUIRER file photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Energy (DoE) on Friday warned liquified petroleum gas (LPG) retailers not to take advantage of consumers in the wake of the havoc caused by the calamity and assured the public that there was enough supply for residents of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

In a statement, the agency said that due to massive floods, some retailers and refillers may be having difficulties in receiving their LPG supply as some import vessels were unable to dock at the Bataan port because of the rough sea. But supply was expected to normalize by next week, the DOE assured.

Because of the delay in transporting LPG to some of the retailers, the DOE advised consumers to call LPG outlets for orders first.

Retail prices of LPG tanks weighing 11 kilograms should remain around P700, the agency told consumers, urging those who observe retailers selling overpriced LPG to report the problem by calling DOE at 8402184.

Businesses found guilty of peddling overpriced petroleum products such as LPG face a fine of P10,000 and an appropriate criminal offense.

Other public officials have cautioned establishments against jacking up prices of basic commodities at a time when many have been displaced from their homes by massive floods and are in need of relief assistance.

San Juan Representative Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito-Estrada urged distributors of basic commodities to be compassionate and not to take advantage of flood victims by hiking prices of goods.

He said that it was important for constituents of districts like San Juan which was badly hit by floods to have ample supply of food, potable water, medicines and other relief items.