BUSINESS
Advocates Philippines
Department Of Energy Issues Stern Warning To LPG Industry Violators
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In a decisive move aimed at upholding safety and regulation in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry, the Department of Energy (DOE) has delivered a stern warning to those who fail to comply with the Republic Act 11592, also known as the "LPG Industry Regulation Act."
The DOE's Senior Science Research Specialist, Robert Cardinales, has underscored the severe consequences awaiting violators of this law, shedding light on their obligations during an interview with DWIZ 882 on Saturday, September 2.
Cardinales firmly emphasized that individuals operating in the LPG industry without a valid License to Operate (LTO) could face a daily fine of P5,000. Beyond monetary penalties, repeat offenders could find themselves facing criminal charges, business closures, and a lifetime ban from participating in the industry.
The LPG Industry Regulation Act, which came into force in October 2021, seeks to reintroduce oversight and regulatory measures to an industry that had previously been deregulated, excluding pricing controls. It introduces comprehensive government supervision, encompassing licensing requirements and strict adherence to safety and code of practice standards.
Since July, DOE personnel have undertaken nationwide inspections spanning retailers, dealers, refillers, transporters, refineries, and importers. The primary purpose of these rigorous inspections is to ensure strict compliance with licensing prerequisites and exacting safety standards.
Cardinales has illuminated instances of violations, with a particular focus on the use of generic LPG cylinders lacking proper markings and ownership information. These transgressions have surfaced during inspections conducted in regions such as Rizal and Quezon Province.
Concerning LTO applications, Cardinales disclosed that a generous six-month grace period had been extended to all participants in the LPG industry, ranging from January to July of the current year. Despite this extension, several retailers have yet to align themselves with these essential requirements. The DOE, however, continues to accept and expedite permit applications for qualified LPG businesses.
Cardinales has firmly reiterated the DOE's commitment to close cooperation with various governmental bodies, law enforcement agencies, and local government units to effectively enforce the law. Inspections are performed with an element of surprise, employing strategic methodologies to maximize their impact.
Furthermore, Cardinales underscored the critical role of consumer vigilance in maintaining industry standards. Legitimate establishments typically remain operational during inspections, while unauthorized entities often shut down in an attempt to avoid scrutiny.
To this end, Cardinales encouraged consumers to promptly report any irregularities or unlawful activities they encounter. Contact information for submitting complaints is readily available on the DOE website, with the department's unwavering dedication to addressing reported issues ensuring the safety and quality of LPG for both industry stakeholders and consumers alike.
The DOE's Senior Science Research Specialist, Robert Cardinales, has underscored the severe consequences awaiting violators of this law, shedding light on their obligations during an interview with DWIZ 882 on Saturday, September 2.
Cardinales firmly emphasized that individuals operating in the LPG industry without a valid License to Operate (LTO) could face a daily fine of P5,000. Beyond monetary penalties, repeat offenders could find themselves facing criminal charges, business closures, and a lifetime ban from participating in the industry.
The LPG Industry Regulation Act, which came into force in October 2021, seeks to reintroduce oversight and regulatory measures to an industry that had previously been deregulated, excluding pricing controls. It introduces comprehensive government supervision, encompassing licensing requirements and strict adherence to safety and code of practice standards.
Since July, DOE personnel have undertaken nationwide inspections spanning retailers, dealers, refillers, transporters, refineries, and importers. The primary purpose of these rigorous inspections is to ensure strict compliance with licensing prerequisites and exacting safety standards.
Cardinales has illuminated instances of violations, with a particular focus on the use of generic LPG cylinders lacking proper markings and ownership information. These transgressions have surfaced during inspections conducted in regions such as Rizal and Quezon Province.
Concerning LTO applications, Cardinales disclosed that a generous six-month grace period had been extended to all participants in the LPG industry, ranging from January to July of the current year. Despite this extension, several retailers have yet to align themselves with these essential requirements. The DOE, however, continues to accept and expedite permit applications for qualified LPG businesses.
Cardinales has firmly reiterated the DOE's commitment to close cooperation with various governmental bodies, law enforcement agencies, and local government units to effectively enforce the law. Inspections are performed with an element of surprise, employing strategic methodologies to maximize their impact.
Furthermore, Cardinales underscored the critical role of consumer vigilance in maintaining industry standards. Legitimate establishments typically remain operational during inspections, while unauthorized entities often shut down in an attempt to avoid scrutiny.
To this end, Cardinales encouraged consumers to promptly report any irregularities or unlawful activities they encounter. Contact information for submitting complaints is readily available on the DOE website, with the department's unwavering dedication to addressing reported issues ensuring the safety and quality of LPG for both industry stakeholders and consumers alike.
Sep 5, 2023
