The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod City has approved a resolution urging national and local agencies to conduct strict, continuous monitoring of gasoline stations to ensure that announced fuel price rollbacks are implemented promptly and in full, Councilor Caesar Distrito said Thursday, Nov. 12.
Authored by Distrito, the measure calls on the Department of Energy (DOE), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Bacolod City Price Monitoring Council, and concerned city offices—through the Office of Mayor Greg Gasataya—to oversee pump prices across the city.
Under the resolution, the City Price Monitoring Council, City Legal Office, and Business Permits and Licensing Division are tasked with coordinating with national agencies to inspect fuel stations, verify actual pump rates, and ensure oil companies’ announced price reductions take effect on their scheduled dates and times.
“When oil companies announce a rollback, it must be implemented at the exact time and date. The benefit meant for consumers must not be delayed. Every peso saved from fuel expenses matters, especially to our jeepney drivers, tricycle drivers, delivery riders, workers, small business owners, and ordinary motorists who are currently enduring the high cost of goods,” Distrito said.
The resolution also urges concerned agencies to set up an accessible consumer complaint mechanism, conduct regular inspections, document suspected violations, and refer verified cases to the DOE and relevant authorities for appropriate sanctions or legal remedies.
Agencies are also requested to submit periodic monitoring reports to the Office of the City Mayor and furnish copies to the city council.
Distrito clarified that the resolution does not seek to regulate or dictate petroleum prices, noting that the industry operates under Republic Act No. 8479, or the Downstream Oil Industry Deregulation Act of 1998. Instead, he said, the measure aims to enforce transparency, accountability, and compliance with publicly announced price cuts.
“We cannot allow consumers to be shortchanged. If oil companies announce a price rollback, gasoline stations must faithfully implement their announced reductions. Our objective is simple: to protect Bacolodnon consumers, promote fair business practices, and make sure that the benefits of lower fuel prices actually reach our people,” Distrito said.*
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