CITY Council’s trade and commerce committee chair Councilor George S. Goking today issued a “strong warning” against unscrupulous traders that are found violating the price freeze order from the Department of Trade and Industry, as it is currently intensifying monitoring of non-compliant establishments.
Goking even warned gas stations in the city may even lose their businesses if caught selling overpriced petroleum products.
“Do not take advantage of the situation,” he said adding that due to pandemic mostly Filipinos are badly affected and need help today.
Goking issued the warning following reports of alleged hoarding and selling fuel in the black market stemming from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine stands to potentially make the situation worse.
The conflict has roiled global markets in recent days, causing stock market turmoil, sending oil prices higher across the country.
According to Goking, those who engage in the hoarding of fuel and other necessities may be charged for violating provisions of Republic Act 7581 or the Price Act and RA 7394 or the Consumer Act.
He said Section 15 of the Price Act imposes penalties for hoarding and profiteering while the Consumer Act imposes criminal liability on unfair and unconscionable sales acts.
“The City has even an existing ordinance that sets limits on selling necessities during calamities and emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic, ” said Goking.
Meanwhile, during the regular session, Goking thanked Petron Corporation, for the earlier reduction in fuel prices.
“Sa miaging mga adlaw miabot sa P69.00 matag litro ang presyo sa gasolina ug miubos na kini ngadto sa P60.00 na lamang sa Petron,” as he lauded Petron, the Ramon Ang-owned oil company.
“This is the time that we need to help each other, like what Mr. Ramon Ang committed to assisting our 'kababayans,” Goking stressed.
“Mr. Ang's company worked it out, why others refrained?,” asked Goking adding that the city is still in crisis due to the pandemic, and here comes the problem with the oil crisis.
“Do not take advantage for now. Hoarding and profiteering off products were imposed penalties and criminal liabilities,” Goking reiterated.
He said that these laws both of which prescribe criminal penalties “without prejudice to administrative sanctions as warranted under the circumstances. (Ben Balce)
