LGU execs suspected of backing illegal LPG operations

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said recently it is looking into reports that some local government officials may be supporting the proliferation of the illegal refilling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders in their respective areas.

The reports came in the wake of a nationwide crackdown by the government against illegal LPG refilling in a bid to curb the trade believed to be exposing communities to imminent danger and causing some 500 fires.

The NBI expressed alarm over the reports which hinted that the continuing operation of illegal LPG refillers "might have the blessing of powerful local officials." The NBI said it is now verifying these reports even as it vowed to intensify surveillance and raid operations against the illegal trade.

The government had earlier called on the public to stop buying illegal refilled LPGs from unauthorized outlets due to the absence of the required safety features and in view of reports that these wares are underfilled by as much as 40 percent.

The lack of safety features in these cylinders has been blamed by the Bureau of Fire Protection for some 500 fires caused by LPG tank explosions. Some of these fires have reportedly caused deaths and injuries.

The NBI also recently intensified its operations in the Southern Tagalog region following reports that the illegal trade continues unabated in the area. It is also investigating complaints that retailers are forced to sell the illegal products due to threats and intimidation by syndicates running the illegal LPG refilling racket.

The NBI has already filed complaints against several suspected illegal LPG refillers. Among these are Omni Gas Corp., Republic Gas Corporation (Regasco), Northland Gas Corporation and Romars International Gases Corporation.

The complaints were filed before the Department of Justice following raids that netted millions of pesos worth of confiscated LPG cylinders and refilling equipment.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has also earlier filed charges against several establishments suspected of illegal LPG refilling. Among these are Capitol Allied Trading, Excel Gas Corporation, Lukban Gas, Inc., Eslee Trading and J. Gutierrez Gas Center.