Fuel retail stations nationwide are now under tighter government surveillance as the Department of Energy (DoE) rolled out its new Special Operating Guidelines to ensure coordinated oversight, accurate reporting, swift enforcement, and uninterrupted consumer access to fuel.

The agency said Wednesday it has deputized local governments, the Philippine National Police, National Electrification Administration and National Power Corporation to help monitor gas stations nationwide.

These agencies will coordinate closely with the DoE, properly identify themselves during inspections, state their purpose, check inventory levels, daily sales, and dispensing practices, verify unusual or bulk purchases, and submit complete documentation for DoE review.

The guidelines also affirm the legitimate fuel needs of essential sectors — such as hospitals, transport, agriculture, telecommunications and government services.

Valid operational purchases will be allowed, subject to verification, to ensure the monitoring does not disrupt critical services or economic activity.

All inspection findings will be consolidated by the DoE, which will retain full authority over monitoring, evaluation and enforcement.