BACOLOD City — The city government has deployed joint fuel monitoring and inspection teams to ensure that gasoline stations comply with authorized price adjustments amid global fuel market volatility linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Mayor Greg Gasataya announced the initiative on March 11 following a coordination meeting with the Department of Energy (DOE), emphasizing the city’s commitment to protect consumers from potential overpricing.
“We will not tolerate overpricing and anyone trying to take advantage of rising fuel prices,” Gasataya said in a statement. “At a time when our people are already facing economic pressures, we stand firm to ensure that Bacolodnons are protected from those who seek to profit from their struggle.”
The initiative establishes Joint Fuel Monitoring and Inspection Teams composed of representatives from the City Mayor’s Office, City Legal Office, City Treasurer’s Office, Business Permits and Licensing Office, Bacolod City Communications Office, and the Philippine National Police through the Bacolod City Police Office.
The teams are tasked with inspecting fuel stations across the city, verifying compliance with DOE-approved price adjustments, and responding to complaints or reported irregularities.
“PNP and the local government unit will monitor possible complaints and violations in gas stations based on what the DOE allows for their price adjustments,” the mayor said.
City records show that 164 gasoline stations are registered in Bacolod, with 151 currently in operation.
Monitoring teams will conduct field inspections to check fuel supply conditions and pricing practices across these establishments. The effort aims to prevent unauthorized price hikes while ensuring transparency in the implementation of legitimate adjustments.
Inspection teams will follow a structured documentation system, recording the name and location of each fuel station, the date and time of inspection, fuel supply reports or photographic documentation, and any observed irregularities such as unusual purchasing patterns.
Statements or clarifications from station management may also be collected during inspections, with proper documentation expected to support fair enforcement and accurate reporting of potential violations.
The monitoring program takes effect immediately as fuel prices continue to fluctuate due to geopolitical developments affecting global oil supply./PN
