Almendras: Fuel prices here not always higher

CEBU, Philippines - Department of Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras yesterday admitted that on certain occasions, the prices of oil in Cebu are slightly higher or lower than in Metro Manila.

Almendras cited the April 14, data of the DOE on Metro Manila versus Cebu Pricing that show Talamban and Banilad stations had lower prices in premium gasoline with P59.82 compared to P60.81 in Manila, or a 0.99 centavos difference. 

Unleaded gasoline in the Talamban/Banilad stations are also lower by 0.68 centavos but the automotive diesel oil here is higher by P1.16 compared to Manila price.

In comparison, Lawaan and Talisay Cebu gasoline stations are higher by P1.07 in premium gasoline, P1.00 in unleaded and 0.35centavos in ADO that in Alabang, Metro Manila stations

On the other hand, Lawaan and Talisay stations have higher prices in unleaded and ADO gasoline that the ones in in Taguig, Metro Manila by P1.00 and 0.35 cents respectively. However, Lawaan and Talisay stations were lower by 0.93 cents compared to Taguig in terms of premium gasoline.

Almendras said that the cause of this is the stimulation of efficiency and competition between oil companies in Cebu.

He added the prices of oil are high not because of actual shortage but the different conflicts happening in the Middle East where oil comes from.

“The most expensive fuel is no fuel,” said the DOE secretary.

Meanwhile, Almendras said the smart cards for the Executive Order No. 32 or “Pantawid Pasada” program of the DOE will be implemented by July this year while it will be implemented in the National Capital Region or Metro Manila by Tuesday, May 2.

The “Pantawid Pasada Program” or the Public Transport Assistance Program (PTAP) of President Benigno Aquino is an assistance to the jeepney and tricycle drivers who are affected by high prices of petroleum products.

Almendras said Cebu and other regions in the Philippines will have a delayed implementation of the “Pantawid Pasada” because of technological, processing and distribution problems.

He added that rather than allowing PUJs to have a fare increase which will affect everybody, it is better to give them assistance to ease their burden. (FREEMAN)