Iloilo City mulls anti-hoarding ordinance amid fuel supply fears

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu is studying the possibility of endorsing an anti-hoarding ordinance to the City Council following reports of fuel stockpiling at gasoline stations and concerns over supply constraints.

Treñas-Chu confirmed Tuesday, April 7, that the city government has received reports of fuel hoarding.

“We are pushing for the passage of an Iloilo City Anti-Hoarding Ordinance to ensure goods remain accessible and fairly distributed to all Ilonggos,” she said.

She noted that the city currently has approximately two months’ worth of fuel stocks based on the latest data.

She warned, however, that hoarding could worsen the impact of existing logistical challenges such as delivery delays, limited transport capacity, and broader supply chain disruptions.

Treñas-Chu said the city will also meet with producers and retailers to strengthen coordination and prevent potential exploitation by middlemen or bulk buyers.

“We will take necessary steps to protect consumers and ensure fair access to essential goods,” she said.

The mayor also reported encouraging results from the city’s energy conservation initiatives, including the implementation of a four-day onsite workweek.

Data showed that electricity consumption at Iloilo City Hall dropped from 147,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) between Jan. 20 and Feb. 20 to 119,000 kWh from Feb. 20 to March 20 — a 19 percent reduction.

The city government has also ordered an investigation into the reported idling of a government vehicle outside Iloilo Terminal Market, amid strict fuel and energy conservation protocols.

Treñas-Chu said misuse or inefficient use of government resources will not be tolerated, especially as the city enforces stricter energy-saving measures.

Initial findings showed that the driver had been waiting for visiting national government officials and kept the engine running in anticipation of their immediate return. Existing guidelines, however, require drivers to switch off engines when vehicles are not in active use.

“A memorandum will be issued to reinforce strict guidelines on their proper use. We also remind all city employees to uphold discipline and responsibility, ensuring public resources are used with integrity,” Treñas-Chu said.