The Philippine National Police (PNP) will begin accepting complaints against gasoline stations that suddenly close operations, a practice authorities have described as “ghosting,” amid ongoing concerns over possible profiteering and hoarding during the oil supply crisis.

According to a report by Edniel Parrosa, the move comes as the Department of Energy (DOE) sought the assistance of the PNP to help monitor and document potential irregularities in the sale of petroleum products.

PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police force will set up help desks where motorists who believe they have been exploited by fuel retailers can report their concerns. Aside from these desks, the public may also call the emergency hotline 911 to report suspected fraud or irregularities in the sale of petroleum products.

Nartatez warned that police action could follow if investigations show that the closure of gasoline stations was illegal and not due to legitimate operational challenges faced by business owners.

“We in the PNP fully understand the situation that gas station owners face amid the challenges brought by the situation in the Middle East,” Nartatez Jr. said in a statement on Sunday.

“But if the sudden closure is for [an] illegal scheme, then expect police action on this matter,” he added.

Authorities clarified that police personnel assigned to the task are conducting roving patrols rather than maintaining a permanent post at gas stations. Their role is to monitor conditions, gather information, and submit reports to the Department of Energy.

“Tayo ay humihingi rin ng tulong mula sa ating mga kababayan na agad ninyong ipagbigay-alam sa mga awtoridad kung may impormasyon kayo tungkol sa mga gasolinahan na nagsara o tumigil ng operasyon. Agad namin itong pupuntahan at iimbestigahan,” the PNP chief said.

The DOE will then review the findings and may issue show cause orders as part of investigations into possible profiteering or hoarding by fuel retailers.

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