BACOLOD City — The Police Regional Office – Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has intensified monitoring and coordination with government agencies and local government units to ensure a stable fuel supply and maintain peace and order in the region amid global developments that may affect oil markets.
The move follows directives from the Philippine National Police Directorate for Operations for police units to implement contingency measures in response to ongoing tensions in the Middle East that could potentially impact domestic fuel security and economic stability.
Brig. Gen. Arnold Tjomas C. Ibay, regional director of PRO-NIR, ordered provincial and city police offices in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor to strengthen coordination with key government agencies in monitoring fuel distribution and prices.
These agencies include the Department of Energy, Department of Trade and Industry, and local government units to ensure that petroleum products are sold and distributed in accordance with government regulations.
Police units have also been directed to closely monitor gasoline stations and fuel depots to prevent hoarding, illegal selling, and profiteering that may arise from possible price fluctuations.
Authorities are also enforcing the “direct-to-tank” policy, which prohibits the dispensing of fuel into handheld containers such as bottles, drums, or other portable storage units.
According to Ibay, proactive monitoring is necessary to protect the public from potential market disruptions.
“The PNP in the Negros Island Region is closely coordinating with concerned agencies and local government units to ensure that fuel supply remains stable and that the public is protected from unlawful activities that may arise from market volatility,” he said.
As part of the contingency measures, police have increased security and visibility at critical infrastructure, including fuel storage facilities and distribution hubs across the region.
Police presence in public areas has also been heightened to deter opportunistic crimes that may occur during periods of economic uncertainty.
Ibay likewise instructed commanders to ensure the readiness of Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) units in case of public demonstrations or transport-related protests linked to fuel price increases.
PRO-NIR has also strengthened intelligence monitoring and checkpoint operations to prevent the illegal transport or smuggling of petroleum products, particularly in coastal areas of the region.
Authorities assured the public that contingency measures are in place to maintain safety and stability in the region.
“The safety and welfare of our communities remain our top priority. PRO-NIR remains vigilant and prepared to respond to any situation that may affect public order and security in the region,” Ibay added./PN
