The Bureau of Customs plans to monitor oil company depots to prevent hoarding and smuggling of oil products.

BOC Asst. Commissioner and Spokesperson Atty. Vincent Philip Maronilla explained the possible outcome if the smuggled petroleum product passes through.

“Maaari kasi nilang gawin na mag-smuggle ng ilang petroleum products at itago ito. Bukod sa smuggled ito at hindi nagbabayad ng tamang buwis, maaari pa nilang itago ito at maghintay ng mas mataas na pagpe-presyo,” he said

[“They can smuggle some petroleum products and then store them. Aside from it is smuggled and evades taxes, they can store it and wait for the peak season to sell it in high price.”]

The BOC will also use their visitorial powers to ensure that oil companies comply with the right process of importation and pay a proper tax.

Maronilla assured the public that any violations found by the oil companies will be held accountable.

“Maaari may paglalabag diyan, mayroong paglalabag diyan ang ating tinatawag na Philippine competition law, ‘yong pagmamanipula, mayroong ding paglabag sa price act under ng jurisdiction ng Department of Trade and Industry at I’m sure mayroong mga regulasyon na ipinatutupad strictly and Department of Energy na maaaring gamitin na violation at basehan ng pagkaso,” he said

Additionally, the Department of Energy has coordinated with the Department of Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police to monitor the oil prices in gasoline stations nationwide to prevent overpricing and consumer abuse.

According to the DOE, gasoline stations found in violation may face consequences such as cancellation of the certificate of compliance, license to operate, business permit, and other actions under law.

With reports from JP Nuñez and Asher Cadapan Jr.

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