LGU Butuan activates ‘Oplan Bantay Presyo,’ monitors fuel prices
By Mariesh F. Celedeña
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — The city government of Butuan has activated the ‘Oplan Bantay Presyo’ team composed of representatives from various regional line agencies and departments to monitor local fuel prices.
In collaboration with personnel from the Department of Energy (DOE), representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine National Police (PNP), and other partner agencies, the city government started inspecting gasoline stations on March 11.
Through this initiative, the city will be able to protect consumers from unjustified and unauthorized price increases and discourage businesses from taking advantage of the situation.
According to Attorney Moshi Ariel S. Cahoy, head of the department of the City Business Permits and Licensing Department (CBPLD), received reports on illegal price increases on petroleum products. For example, according to the Department of Energy, the oil price increase at pump stations was supposed to take effect on March 10. But as early as March 8, some stations already implemented price hikes.
He warned the business owners that their office will issue show cause orders for non-compliance, saying, “If we observe any violations or abusive practices by gasoline stations, we will issue a show cause order. Should they fail to comply with the directives, they may face closure.”
Meanwhile, Butuan City Mayor Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun called all the Butuanons to cooperate. “We will not hesitate to impose very strict penalties on establishments, companies, or businesses that attempt to manipulate prices and take advantage of this crisis. So please cooperate and do not take advantage of this situation. Let us uphold our sense of community. This is a time for us to help one another.”
Butuanons may report through the Consumer Protection Hotline at 0951-388-4193.
Since the increase in fuel prices is inevitable due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, the local chief executive reminded the public to conserve fuel and observe prompt maintenance of their vehicle to ensure efficient fuel use. He also encouraged carpooling to avoid frequent trips, driving at appropriate speeds, and planning trips to reduce unnecessary travel and fuel consumption. (MFC, PIA Caraga, with a report from the Office of Butuan City Mayor)
