By CESAR JOLITO III
The Police Regional Office in the Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) has intensified monitoring of fuel supply and public safety measures across Negros Island following global developments that could affect oil prices and fuel availability.
The move came after the Philippine National Police directorate for operations directed all police units nationwide to prepare contingency measures amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which may potentially impact the global oil market and domestic fuel security.
PRO-NIR Regional Director Arnold Thomas Ibay ordered provincial and city police offices in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor to strengthen coordination with key government agencies to ensure stable fuel distribution and prevent illegal activities.
Police units were directed to work closely with the Department of Energy, Department of Trade and Industry, and local government units to monitor fuel prices and ensure petroleum products are sold in accordance with government regulations.
“[We] ensure that fuel supply remains stable and that the public is protected from any unlawful activities that may arise from market volatility,” Ibay said.
Authorities have also stepped up inspections of gas stations and fuel depots to prevent hoarding, illegal selling and profiteering.
Police are likewise ensuring compliance with the government’s “direct-to-tank” policy, which prohibits fuel stations from dispensing gasoline or diesel into handheld containers such as bottles and drums.
Ibay said the proactive steps are necessary to protect the public from potential economic and security risks linked to oil market volatility.
As part of the contingency plan, police units have also increased security and visibility in vital infrastructure such as fuel storage facilities and distribution hubs.
Police presence in public areas has also been heightened to deter opportunistic crimes.
PRO-NIR commanders were further instructed to ensure the readiness of civil disturbance management units in case of possible public demonstrations or transport-related protests.
Meanwhile, intelligence monitoring and checkpoint operations have also been intensified, particularly in coastal areas, to prevent the illegal transport or smuggling of petroleum products.
PRO-NIR assured the public that measures are in place to maintain peace and order while ensuring continuous police services across the region./CJ, WDJ