MANILA, Philippines — Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian has called on the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to explore the possibility of imposing a price cap on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as consumers prepare for anticipated price increases in the coming weeks.
Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee and the Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee, highlighted LPG as an essential household and small‑business commodity. He warned that projected hikes of ₱35 to ₱40 per 11‑kilogram LPG cylinder could add financial strain on ordinary Filipino families and small eatery owners already grappling with higher fuel costs caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Under the proposal, the DOE and DTI would monitor LPG supply and pricing closely, and if unjustified price increases are found, consider implementing a price ceiling. The senator pointed to provisions under Republic Act 10623 — an amendment to the Price Act — that allow authorities to invoke measures to protect consumers from undue price surges during emergency situations.
Industry groups have warned that the price of an 11‑kilogram LPG cylinder could reach as high as around ₱1,500 in April from current retail ranges of roughly ₱825 to ₱1,135 in Metro Manila due to rising shipping costs and disrupted access through key maritime routes. Despite this, supply is not expected to run short in the next few weeks, with some estimates projecting inventory levels to last 35 to 45 days.
Gatchalian emphasized that because LPG is widely used in homes and by small enterprises, any unreasonable price hike could further increase everyday expenses and food costs for Filipinos. He urged both government agencies to act proactively to safeguard consumers and prevent price gouging.