GARIN (Tara Yap)
Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin has warned against profiteering and hoarding of oil-based products due to the ongoing war in the Middle East.
Garin particularly mentioned owners of gas stations allegedly raising prices on a daily basis.
“That's immoral. You're taking advantage of the problem in the country. You're making it worse for other people,” Garin said while in her hometown of Guimbal in Iloilo province on Friday, March 6.
Garin said the warning covers those engaged in selling of petroleum products, kerosene, and Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG).
She reiterated that only DOE and its attached agencies can approve adjustments.
The DOE said that they will go after violators of Republic Act No. 7581 or the Price Act and Presidential Decree No. 1865 of 1983.
Garin urged the public to report any violators directly to the DOE. “We have to reprimand. We have to file cases to those that are abusing, profiteering, and hoarding. That’s not the Filipino way,” Garin added.