• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has intensified the monitoring of gas stations across the city to prevent price manipulation, following a series of massive fuel price hikes.
BCPO Officer-in-Charge PCol. Eugene Rebadomia directed all station and unit commanders to conduct inspections within their areas of responsibility.
Rebadomia said that the sudden financial burden on the public could trigger a spike in crimes against property.
He noted that theft and robbery often increase when the cost of living surges.
In response, the BCPO has increased police visibility at pumping stations to maintain public order and deter potential crimes.
The necessity was highlighted when authorities discovered a fuel station in Brgy. Mansilingan charged P108.50 per liter for diesel, a price that was immediately corrected to P75.00 following police intervention.
The city government is collaborating with the police, Department of Energy, and the city’s Treasurer’s Office, Legal Office, Communications Office, Mayor’s Office, and Bacolod Permits and License Division.
They are tasked with ensuring that business establishments adhere strictly to petroleum pricing laws to protect consumer welfare.
The BCPO urged the public to be vigilant to help stabilize the local market and report any gasoline stations implementing premature hikes or any irregularities to the nearest police station.*
