Crackdown on Greed: 16 gas stations in Echague, Isabela caught overpricing fuel amid Global Crisis

Echague, Isabela – Notices of Violation have been issued to sixteen gasoline stations in Echague, Isabela, after authorities found that their pump prices exceeded limits set by the Department of Energy (DOE).

The fuel price limitations were enforced nationwide following a DOE advisory in response to rising global oil prices triggered by ongoing tensions in the Middle East.

The directive specifically prohibits premature or excessive pricing of petroleum products to protect consumers.

According to a Facebook post by the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Echague, violations by the sixteen gasoline stations were uncovered during inspections conducted by the Municipal Fuel Monitoring and Enforcement Team (MFMET).

The stations were found selling fuel at rates above the DOE-prescribed price range effective from March 6 to 9.

In response, the establishments were ordered to “cease and desist” from these illegal practices and were given a 24-hour ultimatum to submit a written explanation to the Office of Mayor Faustino “Inno” A. Dy V.

The LGU warned that failure to comply may result in the immediate closure of the establishments and the possible filing of charges before the DOE and the Department of Justice (DOJ).

As of this writing, the LGU has not yet released a follow-up report regarding the specific responses or actions taken by the affected gas stations.

Meanwhile, the public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any pricing irregularities observed at local gasoline stations to ensure proper legal action is taken.

“Hinihikayat ang publiko na i-report o i-comment dito ang anumang kahina-hinalang pagtaas ng presyo o hindi makatarungang gawain sa pagbebenta ng petrolyo,” the LGU wrote.

While Echague has identified a specific number of violators, there are no publicly available reports on the total number of violations in the entire province of Isabela.

Reports from other LGUs indicate that inspections are ongoing to ensure compliance with the fuel price cap.