KIDAPAWAN CITY, Philippines — A minor disagreement over a ₱1 gasoline difference nearly turned into a serious security incident after a motorist allegedly displayed a firearm to intimidate a pump attendant at a gasoline station early Saturday morning.
The incident happened at around 5:52 a.m. at an Esso gasoline station in the city and was captured on the establishment’s closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras.
According to businessman Fajad Guiabar, who manages the station, the tension started when the driver requested a “full tank” but later instructed the pump attendant to stop fueling at ₱150. However, the pump automatically stopped at ₱149 after the motorcycle’s tank became full.
This ₱1 difference reportedly angered the motorist, who demanded that the attendant add more fuel to complete the amount.
The pumpboy complied and added fuel until the meter reached exactly ₱150. Despite this, the driver continued to argue and showed signs of anger.
Guiabar said the situation escalated when the motorist allegedly revealed his firearm and appeared about to draw it, seemingly to frighten the employee. However, the suspect did not fully pull out the gun and did not fire any shots.
“Hindi naman niya tuluyang binunot ang baril, pero ipinakita niya at tila tatanggalin na para manakot,” Guiabar explained.
No one was injured during the incident, and the driver eventually left the station after paying for the gasoline.
Station management clarified that the incident was not a case of robbery or extortion, as the motorist completed his payment. The confrontation was caused by a misunderstanding that escalated unnecessarily.
“This was not a holdup. Nagbayad naman siya. Nagkaroon lang ng hindi pagkakaunawaan na lumala,” Guiabar said.
The management has appealed to the public for help in identifying the suspect, who was reportedly riding a Yamaha NMAX Version 2 motorcycle at the time. CCTV footage is currently being reviewed and may be forwarded to authorities for further investigation.
Local officials expressed concern over the incident, noting that displaying a firearm in public—even without using it—can cause fear and panic and may still carry legal consequences.
Police are expected to determine whether the motorist is a licensed gun owner and whether his actions violated firearms and public safety laws.
The incident has also prompted renewed calls for calm and responsible behavior in resolving disputes, especially in public establishments where workers and customers may be put at risk.
Residents were encouraged to report similar incidents and cooperate with authorities to help maintain peace and order in the city.