Petron terminal manager Peter Paul V. Shotwell told reporters, during a tour of the Pandacan facility early this week, that the amount excludes a P40-million annual budget for security personnel.
He said the allocated amount for safety and security purposes varies depending on the need. "If we have to upgrade and buy a more state-of-the-art equipment, we will ask for funds," the terminal manager said, adding that just last year, they replaced a 10-year old fire truck with a first-of-its-kind telescopic fire truck worth P28 million.
Yearly, he said they have to check if they need to replenish their supply of "foam" which has a life span of about 20 years. Foam which costs P1,000 per gallon, is an effective material in putting off burning oil products.
Each year, Shotwell said they have to see to it that the depot is equipped with at least 3,000 gallons of foam.
According to Shotwell, the current clamor for the transfer of the oil depot is not affecting their safety and security readiness. "We are always ready for any eventuality even without this issue (of relocation). But, we tightened up our security preparation outside the vicinity," he said.
Petron officials, while expressing willingness to cooperate with the government, said they do not see any urgent need to relocate the facility. Petron vice president for supply and operations Jose K. Campos pointed out that the Pandacan terminal’s equipment, facilities and procedures meet the most stringent international safety standards.
Furthermore, Campos said they have an existing agreement with the other depot occupants, Caltex Phils. Inc. and Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp., to share safety and security facilities in the event one of them needs help. – Donnabelle Gatdula