DA assures farmers, fishers of continued fuel access in containers amid energy emergency
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said farmers and fisherfolk will still be allowed to purchase fuel using portable containers during the ongoing energy emergency, following assurances from the Department of Energy (DOE).
According to Tiu Laurel, the DOE has clarified that fuel-grade containers such as jerry cans and drums may be used for legitimate operational needs, provided that existing rules are followed. These include fuel requirements for farm machinery like tractors and irrigation pumps, as well as fishing boats and marine equipment that need refueling at docks or coastal areas.
The DOE emphasized that all transactions must comply with its safety and regulatory standards. Buyers may also be required to present proof of need, such as permits, certifications, or purchase orders, to confirm that the fuel will be used for productive activities.
Tiu Laurel reassured stakeholders that access to fuel will remain available. He also noted that food production and distribution have been identified as priority sectors by Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to protect public welfare and sustain economic activity.
The assurance forms part of wider government efforts to manage fuel supply and prevent disruptions, particularly amid concerns about shortages and panic buying.
To support this, monitoring teams made up of local government units and police officers have been deployed to gas stations nationwide. These teams are tasked with checking fuel inventories, tracking daily sales, and identifying unusual purchasing patterns such as repeated or bulk transactions.
While large purchases are not automatically considered hoarding, authorities are required to verify their legitimacy. Fuel stations may also temporarily limit purchases per vehicle to discourage stockpiling and ensure fair distribution.
