Gas Too Expensive? Here's How You Can Report Unauthorized Price Hikes

(SPOT.ph) With fuel prices constantly shifting, many drivers are used to checking the weekly increase before heading to the nearest gas station. If you suspect a station is charging more than it should, there’s now a way to flag it and let government know.

The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) have launched a complaint channel through the eGovPH app.

There, users can file reports if they encounter suspicious activities at gas stations. This may include cases where prices appear to increase unusually fast or exceed the official adjustments. Complaints can also cover other issues such as fuel shortages, panic buying, and refusal to sell fuel.

But keep in mind that fuel prices are legitimately going up this week. Oil companies are implementing big-time increases of about P17 to P24 per liter following escalating tensions in the Middle East—in what DOE Secretary Sharon Garin called the "highest jump" in history. However, the increases are not being applied all at once.

Several major companies like Shell, Petron, Total, and Seaoil have agreed to spread the hikes over several days until March 16 to soften the impact, so motorists may notice prices changing depending on the station—and even the day—they decide to gas up. In any case, it helps to know how to report it if something seems off.

Also read: This Website Shows You Nearby Gas Stations With the Cheapest Prices

Download the eGovPH app—the government’s all-in-one mobile platform that lets users access various public services and digital IDs in one place—which is available on both iOS and Android.

Tap “Report” on the home screen and select “Gas Station Concerns.” The page lists several situations you can report, including panic buying at gas stations, fuel hoarding, unusually large or sudden price increases, unauthorized price hikes, refusal to sell fuel, and possible fuel shortages.

Motorists are advised to document what they see—such as taking photos, noting the station’s location, or recording details of the incident—before submitting the report through the app. The information is then forwarded to the relevant agencies so they can investigate the complaint.

According to DOE, your participation can help flag potential violations more quickly, especially during periods when fuel prices are changing rapidly.

Also read: Here Are Driving Tips That Can Help You Save Fuel