DOE to aggressively hunt down illegal LPG refillers

by Myrna Velasco September 14, 2016

http://www.mb.com.ph/doe-to-aggressively-hunt-down-illegal-lpg-refillers/

The Department of Energy (DOE) will flex its muscles to vigorously hunt down entities or parties that have been illegally engaged in refilling of branded cylinders of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) products.

The Independent Philippine Petroleum Companies Association (IPPCA) has indicated that this was the point of discussion they had with Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi in their recent meeting.

Such prohibited practice in the industry revolves around circumstances wherein some entities or individuals will refill branded cylinders of LPG even if they are not authorized to do so.

IPPCA noted that “no less than Secretary Cusi has committed to go against illegal LPG refilling activities that imperil not only the lives of consumers but also damage properties.”

These unlawful acts are widely known to be fire hazards, but unscrupulous individuals are still unabated on their operations.

IPPCA member-companies have noted that they hold on to the words of Cusi, when he asserted that “DOE could be held administratively and criminally liable if they do not protect the interest of consumers and industry stakeholders, particularly in instances wherein there are deaths.”

According to IPPCA President Fernando L. Martinez, their group “has always been willing and committed in helping the government address this issue of illegal LPG refilling.”

He explained that legitimate industry players prudently invest capital in quality LPG cylinders, thus, it is unmerited just losing them into the hands of crooked individuals.

Martinez said these illegally refilled LPG tanks often attract buyers because they can be priced lower compared to the legitimate products retailed at oil company-networks and stations.

Nevertheless, he stressed that “consumers are usually shortchanged as their cylinders are either under-filled or replaced with substandard cylinders.”

The group expounded that there are also instances “where these alleged unscrupulous players import second-hand cylinders that were just refurbished or re-conditioned.”

DOE proffered to tighten the controls on setting up shops of LPG refilling so the proliferation of cash-strapped actors or substandard products could be prevented.