DAVAO CITY — Authorities confiscated nearly ₱880,000 worth of alleged illegally possessed liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders during a coordinated law enforcement operation in Barangay Panacan, Davao City on December 16, 2025, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) reported.
From 1:57 p.m. to 8:40 p.m., personnel of the CIDG Davao City Field Unit and CIDG Regional Field Unit 11, together with representatives from Pryce Gas, Inc., the Sasa Police Station, and in coordination with the Department of Energy–Mindanao Field Office (DOE-MFO), simultaneously served two search warrants for violations of Republic Act No. 11592, or the LPG Industry Regulation Act.
The operation led to the recovery of Pryce Gas, Inc. (PGI) LPG cylinders from two warehouses in Barangay Panacan, with an estimated total value of ₱878,900.00. Authorities said the cylinders were illegally possessed, stored, and concealed, citing the absence of authorization from the brand owner, Pryce Gas, Inc., and the lack of a valid license to operate or registration from the DOE.
According to a report submitted to PMGEN Robert AA Morico II, Acting Director of the CIDG, the activities allegedly violated Section 38(a)(1) of Republic Act 11592, which penalizes the unauthorized possession and operation involving LPG products.
PMGEN Morico underscored that the State has the duty to protect end-consumers, ensure public safety, and enforce strict standards of conduct in the LPG industry, which covers importing, refining, storage, exportation, refilling, transportation, distribution, and marketing of LPG products.
The intensified enforcement is part of the focused program thrust of the Acting Chief of the Philippine National Police, PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., aimed at curbing illegal activities that pose risks to public safety.
CIDG leadership also commended PLTCOL Ariel T. Huesca, Regional Chief of CIDG RFU 11, and the CIDG Davao City Field Unit, led by PMAJ Winnie T. Lampuyas, for the successful operation. Authorities said the seizure significantly reduced potential hazards that could have resulted from the unlawful possession and improper storage of LPG cylinders.
The CIDG assured the public that it remains steadfast in enforcing all laws and committed to its continuing fight against illegal LPG operations, warning violators that similar operations will persist to protect consumers and communities.