The Department of Energy-Mindanao Field Office (DOE-MFO) has significantly intensified its campaign against rampant illegal selling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) across several parts of Mindanao. Amid growing reports of unauthorized operations, the agency is now urgently calling on the public to help identify and report suspected violators to ensure market safety and regulatory compliance.
Public Cooperation Crucial in Combating Illegal LPG Activities
DOE-Mindanao officials have emphasized that community vigilance plays a vital role in their enforcement efforts. Residents are encouraged to immediately report establishments engaged in illegal LPG refilling, unauthorized cylinder sales, or operations lacking the required permits and regulatory documents. These include businesses operating without a valid License to Operate (LTO), those missing an Authority to Sell (ATS), and entities involved in other questionable LPG distribution activities.
The agency specifically highlighted several suspicious operations that warrant public reporting:
- Unauthorized LPG deliveries to unlicensed establishments
- Questionable warehouse storage facilities with inadequate safety measures
- Illegal defilling activities where LPG is transferred between cylinders without proper authorization
Recent Enforcement Actions Reveal Widespread Violations
As part of its intensified crackdown, DOE-Mindanao conducted comprehensive inspections in Davao del Norte from February 23 to 27, 2026. During this operation, inspectors discovered that 12 LPG establishments in the province were operating without a valid License to Operate, highlighting the scale of regulatory non-compliance in the region.
Following these findings, the DOE issued Show Cause Orders (SCOs) to all violators, requiring them to submit written explanations and demonstrate compliance with existing regulatory standards. The agency also announced that similar orders will be issued against LPG suppliers found transacting with establishments lacking proper licenses, in accordance with DOE Department Circular No. DC 2022-11-0037.
Licensing System Protects Consumers and Legitimate Businesses
DOE-Mindanao stressed that the License to Operate serves as more than just a regulatory requirement—it functions as a critical consumer safeguard. Proper licensing ensures that LPG products sold in the market:
- Comply with established safety and regulatory standards
- Contain the proper weight as advertised
- Originate from legitimate, properly regulated businesses
Beyond consumer protection, the licensing system also safeguards legitimate LPG enterprises by maintaining fair competition within the industry and preventing illegal operators from undermining lawful businesses through unfair practices.
Limited Resources Make Public Reports Essential
The agency explained that community reports have become particularly important due to limited inspection resources, especially in far-flung areas. Enforcement operations become significantly more effective when authorities receive accurate leads that allow them to target specific establishments suspected of violating safety and regulatory standards.
Officials assured the public that all information submitted by concerned citizens will be treated with strict confidentiality to protect those who provide tips about illegal LPG operations.
Broader Commitment to Public Safety and Industry Integrity
DOE-Mindanao stated that the continuing inspections form part of its broader commitment to protect public safety, ensure fair competition in the LPG industry, and maintain safe, legitimate operations across the region. The agency emphasized that compliance with regulatory standards represents not only a legal obligation but also a shared responsibility to ensure public welfare.
Consumers are reminded to purchase LPG only from retailers authorized by the DOE, while LPG industry players are urged to secure all necessary permits—including a valid License to Operate and Authority to Sell—before engaging in business operations. This collaborative approach between regulators, businesses, and the public aims to create a safer, more transparent LPG market throughout Mindanao.
