Davao Oriental Mobilizes Price Council as Fuel Costs Threaten Local Markets
The Provincial Government of Davao Oriental has taken proactive steps by convening the Provincial Price Coordinating Council (PPCC) in response to the continuous increases in petroleum prices, which pose a significant risk to the stability of local commodity prices. This strategic move aims to safeguard consumers and maintain orderly market conditions across the province.
Strengthening Monitoring and Coordination Efforts
Davao Oriental Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that preparations must be in place before the situation escalates out of control. The PPCC will align its actions closely with the guidance of the Department of Energy (DOE) to address fuel supply and pricing issues effectively. During the council session, local chief executives and provincial offices synchronized their monitoring and response mechanisms, ensuring a unified approach to potential disruptions.
Responsibilities under the PPCC framework have been clearly delineated, with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) playing a key role in monitoring prices and commercial establishments. Meanwhile, the Provincial Agriculture and Fisheries Office (Pagro) will focus specifically on agricultural commodities and wet markets, ensuring that essential food items remain affordable and accessible to residents.
Enforcement and Anti-Profiteering Measures
In a parallel effort, Davao Oriental Vice Governor Glenda Rabat-Gayta convened a meeting with law enforcement agencies, including the Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office (DOPPO), Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and DTI. This collaboration aims to prevent profiteering, hoarding, and price manipulation within the province. Authorities are actively monitoring compliance to ensure that businesses adhere to fair pricing practices and do not exploit the current economic climate.
Energy Conservation Initiatives
Earlier, the Provincial Government issued Executive Order No. 23, Series of 2026, in compliance with Presidential Memorandum Circular No. 114, Series of 2026. This order adopts comprehensive measures to strengthen energy conservation and enhance the efficiency of government operations. Key provisions include the implementation of a four-day compressed workweek, running from Monday to Thursday, with working hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday has been designated as Provincial Energy Conservation Day, during which most provincial offices will be closed, except for those delivering essential services to the public. The order also stipulates specific energy-saving measures, such as setting air conditioners at 24 degrees Celsius, limiting their usage, maximizing natural lighting and ventilation, and turning off non-essential lights and equipment. These steps are designed to reduce energy consumption and mitigate the broader impacts of rising fuel costs on government operations.
Through these coordinated efforts, the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental aims to ensure that consumers are protected from unjust price hikes while promoting sustainable practices in response to the ongoing challenges in the energy sector.
