Davao City Fuel Rush Amid False Energy Lockdown Rumors
Late on Monday night, April 6, 2026, long lines of vehicles were observed at a gasoline station in Davao City as residents hurried to refuel ahead of an anticipated fuel price increase. This surge in activity followed the spread of online claims about an impending "energy lockdown," prompting concerns among consumers.
DOE Issues Advisory Against Panic Buying
The Department of Energy-Mindanao Field Office (DOE-MFO) has cautioned the public against panic buying and fuel hoarding, emphasizing that supply remains sufficient despite the circulating misinformation. In a statement, the DOE's central office clarified that there is no directive for an energy lockdown and urged consumers to rely solely on official channels for verified information.
Authorities highlighted that unnecessary stockpiling could disrupt distribution networks and artificially strain supply chains, particularly in urban centers like Davao City. "Patuloy ang monitoring at koordinasyon ng DOE at ng industriya upang matiyak ang tuloy-tuloy at sapat na suplay ng enerhiya at kuryente sa bansa," the energy regulator stated, underscoring ongoing efforts to ensure stable energy and electricity supply nationwide.
Stable Fuel Supply and Prices in Davao Region
Data from the DOE covering the monitoring period from March 31 to April 6, 2026, reveals that fuel prices across the Davao Region remain within expected ranges, reflecting stable supply conditions despite global uncertainties. The figures provide a detailed breakdown:
- Premium gasoline prices ranged from ₱85.70 to ₱107.30 per liter, with a regional average of ₱95.44. Davao Occidental posted the highest average at ₱100.65, while Davao del Norte registered one of the lowest at ₱94.03.
- Regular gasoline prices varied between ₱84.00 and ₱104.20 per liter, averaging ₱94.20 across the region. Davao Occidental again recorded a higher average of ₱99.90, with Davao del Norte lower at ₱92.69.
- Diesel prices showed a wider spread, from ₱116.00 to ₱145.00 per liter, averaging ₱129.92. Davao Occidental had the highest diesel average at ₱138.70, while Davao del Norte was among the lowest at ₱127.94.
- Diesel plus prices ranged from ₱124.40 to ₱147.80 per liter, with an average of ₱141.77. Areas like Davao Oriental and Davao Occidental reflected higher averages due to logistical and distribution cost differences.
- Kerosene prices remained available, spanning ₱114.00 to ₱155.30 per liter and averaging ₱140.90. Davao del Sur posted the highest average at ₱145.20, while Davao del Norte recorded a lower average of ₱135.43.
No Energy Lockdown, DOE Reiterates
The DOE has reiterated that online posts and videos claiming an impending "energy lockdown" are false and did not originate from the agency. Officials warned that some of these materials, including AI-generated content, are designed to mislead the public and may contain harmful links. Consumers are advised to remain vigilant, avoid engaging with suspicious content, and verify information before sharing.
Anti-Hoarding Measures Strengthened
To ensure continuous and equitable fuel distribution, the DOE has implemented stricter monitoring and enforcement measures against hoarding and abnormal purchasing behavior. The agency issued Operating Guidelines Against Hoarding to maintain fuel availability and accessibility nationwide, aiming to safeguard energy security and ease the burden on Filipino families.
Enhanced oversight includes the use of the Emergency Petroleum Monitoring System (EPMS) for real-time tracking of fuel inventories and transactions. Coordination with enforcement agencies such as the Department of Justice, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Fire Protection, and local government units has also been intensified. These measures are intended to quickly detect and address irregularities in fuel supply and pricing, protecting consumers from artificial shortages or price manipulation.
Public Urged to Buy Only What Is Needed
Amid ongoing monitoring, the DOE has reiterated its call for responsible consumer behavior. Motorists and businesses are encouraged to purchase fuel based only on their regular needs, as supply levels remain stable across Mindanao, including the Davao Region. Officials stressed that panic buying not only disrupts supply chains but may also lead to unnecessary price volatility, affecting vulnerable sectors.
With steady fuel prices and no indication of supply disruption, the DOE assured the public that there is no need for alarm. The focus remains on vigilance against misinformation and cooperation in maintaining a stable energy market.
