The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) has intensified monitoring and coordination efforts with partner agencies and local government units to ensure the stability of fuel supply and maintain peace and order amid global developments that may affect oil markets.
The move follows the directive from the Philippine National Police Directorate for Operations requiring all police units to implement contingency measures in response to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which may potentially affect domestic fuel security and economic stability.
PRO NIR Regional Director PBGEN Arnold Thomas C. Ibay directed all provincial and city police offices across Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor to strengthen coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and local government units in monitoring fuel prices and ensuring that petroleum products are distributed in accordance with government regulations.
Police units have also been tasked to conduct monitoring of gas stations and fuel depots to prevent hoarding, illegal selling, and profiteering, while ensuring compliance with the “direct-to-tank” policy that prohibits dispensing fuel into handheld containers such as bottles and drums.
According to PBGEN Ibay, proactive measures are essential to safeguard the welfare of the public amid possible economic ripple effects.
“The PNP in the Negros Island Region is closely coordinating with concerned agencies and local government units to ensure that the fuel supply remains stable and that the public is protected from any unlawful activities that may arise from market volatility,” PBGEN Ibay said.
As part of the contingency measures, PRO NIR has also directed police units to increase security and visibility in vital infrastructure such as fuel storage facilities and distribution hubs, while maintaining heightened police presence in public areas to deter opportunistic crimes.
Police commanders were likewise instructed to ensure the readiness of Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) units to manage potential public demonstrations or transport-related protests in a lawful and orderly manner.
Intelligence monitoring and checkpoint operations have also been intensified to prevent the illegal transport or smuggling of petroleum products, particularly in coastal areas of the region.
PRO NIR assured the public that contingency measures are in place to maintain public safety and ensure the continuous delivery of police services across the Negros Island Region.
“The safety and welfare of our communities remain our top priority. PRO NIR remains vigilant and prepared to respond to any situation that may affect public order and security in the region,” PBGEN Ibay added.
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