The current increase in fuel prices in the Philippines is expected due to the Middle East war. Gas stations are reported to be experiencing shortages nationwide. With supply delays due to transportation issues, is there a way to lessen the blow for the common Juan?

The Department of Energy is proactive in mitigating the rising prices. For instance, the DOE informed the public about unjust price increases and actions they can take against the companies that were not compliant. True to its word, the agency issued a Show Cause Order to some fuel stations in Pasig City and Quezon City for defying the scheduled increase.

The previous warning evolved into a more systematic method. The DOE and the Department of Information and Communications Technology partnered up to develop the eGovPH Complaint Center. The agency urges the public to document and report any of the following issues: panic buying, fuel hoarding, noncompliance with fuel pricing, unauthorized price increases, refusal to sell fuel, and fuel shortages (even explaining the full guidelines regarding anti-hoarding and fuel dispensing).

Reports can be submitted through the eGovPH application by clicking on “Report” and pressing “Continue.” Then select “Gas Station Concerns” and enter your specific concern.

The department has previously set general pump prices for companies for March 6-9. More recently, some oil companies joined in to provide the new rates for March 10-16. The sector is encouraging other establishments to do a similar gradual steepening. This helps the consumers to adjust and prepare for the coming days.

The situation around the Arabian Peninsula is still volatile. The war has not yet ceased; therefore, the cost of oil and other products from affected countries might still skyrocket over the coming weeks, and even basic needs might be affected.