A fisherman was arrested in Cawayan, Masbate, after authorities seized 400 liters of diesel fuel allegedly being transported without the required permits and supporting documents.

The Police Regional Office 5 (PRO5) said the arrest stemmed from an intelligence-driven operation conducted on 25 June in support of the government's National Energy Emergency measures.

Around 5:40 p.m., joint operatives from the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Masbate Police Provincial Office, the Cawayan Municipal Police Station, and the 502nd Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 5 carried out the operation following validated intelligence reports on the alleged illegal transportation and trading of petroleum products.

Authorities caught the suspect in possession of three blue plastic drums containing about 400 liters of diesel fuel valued at approximately P26,400.

Police said the suspect failed to present receipts, delivery documents, permits, or other proof authorizing the transport and possession of the petroleum products.

The suspect will face charges for violating Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865, which penalizes the unauthorized sale, transportation, distribution, storage, and possession of petroleum products.

Police said the law aims to prevent the illegal diversion and trade of fuel, protect consumers, preserve the integrity of the country's fuel supply, and safeguard government revenues.

Authorities added that the illegal transport and trading of petroleum products pose fire and environmental hazards while undermining legitimate businesses and government regulation.

The suspect, along with the confiscated diesel fuel and other evidence, was brought to the Cawayan Municipal Police Station for documentation. Criminal charges are being prepared for filing before the Office of the Prosecutor.

PRO5 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Erosito N. Miranda commended the operating units for the successful operation, saying intelligence-driven law enforcement remains a key strategy in combating economic crimes.

"This operation shows PRO5's unwavering commitment to protecting the public against unlawful activities that threaten economic stability and public safety. We will continue to intensify intelligence gathering and law enforcement operations to dismantle illegal fuel trading activities and hold violators accountable," Miranda said.