Agusan Norte municipal LGU intensifies fuel price monitoring
By Nora L. Molde
 |
Personnel from the local
government of Remedios T. Romualdez’s Local Price Coordinating Council conduct
an inspection and fuel price monitoring under the program on ‘Oplan
Calibration.’ The initiative ensures fair pricing and accurate weighing and
measuring of goods. It also safeguards consumers from irregular trade practices
amid rising global fuel costs. (Photo courtesy of DTI Agusan del Norte) |
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — In response to rising fuel prices linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the local government unit (LGU) of Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), through its Local Price Coordinating Council (LPCC), has strengthened the monitoring of fuel prices in the town to protect consumers and ensure fair trade practices.
DTI Agusan del Norte Director Lorijane D. Sacote emphasized the importance of sustained government action during periods of economic uncertainty.
“In light of the ongoing global situation affecting fuel prices, DTI, in partnership with our local government units, remains vigilant in monitoring market conditions to ensure that price adjustments are justified and that consumers are protected. Our goal is to maintain transparency, prevent unfair trade practices, and help mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs and other prices of goods on our communities.”
The local government’s LPCC remains fully committed to protecting its constituents from the effects of rising fuel prices through strengthened monitoring and close coordination with DTI, to ensure that businesses comply with regulations to protect consumers’ welfare.
From March 16 to 19, RTR’s LPCC, through its calibration team and in coordination with the DTI Negosyo Center RTR, conducted the first quarter ‘Oplan Calibration: Surprise Inspection of Business Establishments.’ The initiative forms part of proactive measures to safeguard the public from possible irregularities amid economic pressures stemming from fuel price hikes.
Led by Calibration Officer Designate Renando M. Rubrica, the inspection covered various establishments to ensure compliance with pricing regulations, proper weighing and measuring standards, and consumer protection laws.
The activity culminated on March 19, with fuel hike impact monitoring activity at selected fuel stations. The monitoring team, led by DTI Agusan del Norte Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist Elmer A. General, assessed the effects of recent fuel price increases on both consumers and local businesses.
Results showed that fuel price adjustments were consistent with prevailing market conditions, with no reported cases of panic buying, illegal fuel selling, or hoarding, indicating strong compliance among fuel retailers in the municipality.
The joint initiative highlights strengthened collaboration between the LGU of RTR and DTI Agusan del Norte in addressing the ripple effects of global fuel price volatility at the local level.
Through continuous monitoring, enforcement, and coordination, both agencies reaffirm their commitment to fostering a fair, transparent, and stable marketplace, making both consumers’ and businesses’ welfare their top priority amid evolving economic challenges. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
