PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The provincial government of Palawan has called on law enforcement agencies to check on the reported uncontrolled smuggling of fuel and other petroleum products in its coastal waters.
This came after the Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved on Tuesday a sponsored resolution by Board Member Roseller Pineda asking law enforcement authorities to step up the conduct of patrols in the coastal waters of Linapacan and Culion, northern Palawan, due to the problem.
He said it involves large, deep sea fishing vessels and tankers that sell petroleum products to other seafaring vessels at low prices. The practice, which is locally called paihi or siphoning of fuel from tanks to be sold illegally.
“There are so many petroleum products being sold – diesel and gasoline – that are no longer from the regular dealers, but from the vessels,” Pineda said.
Aside from the two towns, the illegal selling practice, has also been reported in the coastal waters of the Sulu and West Philippine Seas.
He said that if the reports would turn out to be true, they could be considered “economic sabotage” as they are not taxed, and they affect the legal businesses of legitimate sellers.
“It could also be considered as economic sabotage since they know there are legitimate sellers who are affected by this illegal activity,” he added.
Pineda’s approved measure is directed towards the Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Police, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs and the Bantay-Dagat-Palawan. (Celeste Anna Formoso/PNA)
