Motorists in Davao City rushed to gas stations early Tuesday morning, March 10, 2026, as a massive oil price increase took effect, driven by the escalating crisis in the Middle East. According to data from the Department of Energy (DOE), retailers raised per-liter prices significantly: gasoline increased by ₱7 to ₱13, diesel by ₱17.50 to ₱24.25, and kerosene by ₱32 to ₱38.50. Despite the adjustment, many drivers and motorcycle riders expressed concerns that fuel costs could continue to rise in the coming days, potentially impacting their daily earnings and transportation expenses further.
Police Response to Station Closures
In response to the fuel crisis, the Police Regional Office-Davao Region announced plans to conduct dipping inspections of underground tanks at closed gasoline stations. This initiative aims to validate the reasons behind the closures and prevent alleged profiteering among local retailers. The DOE has authorized the Philippine National Police (PNP) to inspect fuel storage tanks to verify if remaining fuel levels have indeed dropped to 10 to 15 percent of their overall capacity.
Closure Statistics and Monitoring Efforts
Since March 9, 2026, a total of 16 fuel stations across the Davao Region have reported closures: eight in Davao City, six in Davao del Norte, and two in Davao Oriental. Police Major Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson for PRO-Davao, emphasized that the police will monitor these sites to ensure the reported supply depletion is genuine and not a tactic to manipulate prices.
During a press briefing at the Royal Mandaya Hotel on March 25, 2026, Dela Rey stated, "The DOE said the PNP can request a dipping inspection of the underground tanks of the closed gas stations to check if their remaining supply is only at 10 to 15 percent." She added that if complaints arise about false claims, inspections can be requested at those stations.
Coordination and Future Actions
The PNP will coordinate with the DOE to ensure station owners are not withholding fuel. While Regional Director PbGen Leon Rosete has not yet issued specific directives for immediate checks, the police force remains prepared to provide area security and support once the DOE takes action against non-compliant stations. This proactive measure seeks to maintain transparency and fairness in the fuel market during this challenging period.
